More than 60 Labour MPs and peers have urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to introduce a youth mobility visa scheme with the EU, calling it a vital step toward rebuilding economic and diplomatic ties with the bloc. The proposed scheme would allow 18- to 30-year-olds from the UK and EU to live and work abroad for a limited period, boosting cultural exchange and economic cooperation.
A Reset Without Returning to Free Movement
While Labour remains firm on its stance against a return to free movement, the proposed scheme would mirror existing UK arrangements with countries such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. It would allow 18- to 30-year-olds from the UK and EU to live and work in each other’s countries for a limited time, under a capped scheme.
MPs and peers stated in a letter that the scheme could offer “new cultural, educational and economic opportunities” without undermining the UK’s migration controls.
Growing Political Support for Youth Mobility Visa in UK-EU Trade Discussions
Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed that talks with Brussels are ongoing, noting the need to bring down net migration while also ensuring the UK has “control over who comes into the country.”
The youth mobility scheme is one of three priority areas under discussion with EU negotiators. The others include:
- A sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement to ease food and drink exports and reduce border friction, particularly for trade with Northern Ireland.
- A UK-EU mutual recognition agreement on product standards, aimed at streamlining regulatory barriers for key sectors such as pharmaceuticals and automotive.
MPs also urged the UK to join the Pan-Euro-Mediterranean (PEM) Convention, a regional trade framework that could reduce costs for exporters and manufacturers.
Business and Economic Implications
Experts warn that even with closer ties, the economic damage from Brexit won’t be quickly reversed. However, MPs argue that easing trade friction will help sectors like automotive, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
Andrew Lewin, MP for Welwyn Hatfield, stated: “This is about securing opportunities for young people and boosting growth—not relitigating Brexit.”
As negotiations progress, the government faces a balancing act: strengthening EU relations while keeping migration controls in place. The outcome could shape Britain’s economic future in a rapidly shifting global landscape.
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