EU tempts Starmer with freedom of movement offer for under-30s

THE European Union has proposed a freedom of movement-style deal for young Europeans in an attempt to appeal to a future Labour government.

The youth mobility scheme would allow Europeans, aged 18 to 30, to come to Britain for up to four years to work, travel and study. It could pave the way for thousands of European waiters, baristas and au pairs to plug gaps in the British workforce. Britons would also be able to take part in the reciprocal scheme by moving to the continent, under the deal proposed by the European Commission yesterday.

Maros Sefcovic, the EU’S Brexit negotiator, said: “The United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union has hit young people in the EU and the

UK who would like to study, work and live abroad particularly hard. Today, we take the first step towards an ambitious but realistic agreement between the EU and the UK that would fix this issue. Our aim is to rebuild human bridges between young Europeans on both sides of the Channel.”

Sir Keir Starmer, the Labour leader, has signalled that he would seek closer ties with the EU if he wins the next election. The UK already has reciprocal schemes with ten non-eu countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan and Iceland. They allow those eligible to travel and work in Britain without needing a sponsor or meeting other requirements, such as salary thresholds, without significantly contributing to net migration.

Industry leaders and Remain campaigners have been pushing for an Euwide

visa scheme to make it easier for young Britons to travel and work in the bloc, and vice-versa. Charles Owen, of Seasonal Business in Travel, said: “A reciprocal youth mobility scheme is a win-win for both Europe and the UK, and in particular for struggling businesses suffering from chronic labour shortages, made worse by Brexit.”

A Labour spokesman said: “Labour has no plans for a youth mobility scheme. We have already suggested some tangible ways that we would look to improve the relationship and deliver for British businesses and consumers, including seeking a veterinary agreement and improved touring opportunities for artists. A Labour Government would seek to improve the UK’S working relationship with the EU within our red lines – no return to the single market, customs union or free movement.”