Government considers youth mobility scheme as part of EU talks

Europeans under 30 could again be allowed to live and work in the UK as the government attempts to reset relations with the EU post-Brexit.

According to reports in The Times, the new Labour government has acknowledged that youth mobility could be an area that could aid more wide-ranging talks.

A source told the paper: “No one will say it publicly at this stage, but there is an acknowledgement that this is an area where we will need to move. If we are serious about resetting relations with the EU, then we need to be prepared to give them some of the things that they want.”

The proposal would likely be similar to existing deals with Canada and Australia, whereby those under 30 can live and work in the UK for up to three years as part of a reciprocal relationship.

UKHospitality has long called for the expansion of the young mobility scheme to include the EU to benefit hospitality and tourism.

Chief executive Kate Nicholls said earlier this year: “The sharing of cultures, cuisines and knowledge have long been the bedrock of the UK’s world-leading hospitality sector and agreements like youth mobility schemes have been a key part of that success.

“We have been calling for these schemes to be expanded and I’m pleased to see the EU Commission coming to the table with a plan to open negotiations.”

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