The British government has firmly declared that there will be no post-Brexit agreements allowing for easier access for young UK citizens to live, study, and work in European Union (EU) countries. On Thursday, the European Commission expressed its intention to request permission from EU member states to begin discussions on a youth mobility scheme for UK citizens between 18 and 30 years old. However, the UK government showed no interest, reiterating that ‘free movement within the EU was ended’.
Presently, the UK has individual youth mobility arrangements with 13 countries. The government indicated its preference for these bilateral agreements over a broad EU-related agreement. The Labour Party also dismissed an all-encompassing EU scheme, advocating to enhance the UK’s working relationship with the EU whilst maintaining their firm boundaries – no reinstating the single market, customs union or free movement.
The European Commission implied on Thursday that the UK had shown interest in youth mobility agreements with individual member states, asserting that an EU-wide scheme would be fairer as it would ensure equal treatment for all members. Maroš Šefčovič, Vice-President of the European Commission, claimed that Brexit has significantly affected young people in both the EU and the UK who wish to study, work, and reside overseas. He added that the goal is to form meaningful connections between young Europeans on both sides of the Channel.
EU member states would have needed to agree to these plans prior to any negotiations with the UK. The UK government’s spokesperson, however, stated that an EU-wide Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) is not on the cards, adding that there are no plans to reintroduce it. The spokesperson further explained that the UK already has successful arrangements with 13 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, and remains open to potential agreements with international partners, including individual EU member states, provided it aligns with the UK’s interests and benefits its young population. Liberal Democrat Leader Sir Ed Davey, though, supported an EU-wide scheme, stating such a deal would be mutually beneficial.
He stated, “For quite some time now, the Liberal Democrats have been pressing the government to establish a two-way youth mobility plan with Europe. Clearly, the specifics would require dialogue and agreement, but it would be imprudent for any UK administration to dismiss such a proposal without consideration.” – PA