As reported in The Times, Rachel Reeves is said to be in favour of a new Youth Mobility Scheme to help boost the UK economy. European Movement UK has long urged the UK government to reach a deal on youth mobility as quickly as possible. Every day, our young people lose out on the cultural possibilities enjoyed by their EU counterparts. If Sir Keir Starmer is serious about resetting the UK’s relationship with the EU, then mobility for young people could be a gateway to much closer ties with our nearest neighbours.
Sir Nick Harvey, CEO, European Movement UK said:
“The news that the government seems to be seriously considering a youth mobility scheme with the EU has been a long time coming. Its former hostility to the idea could not be justified when the benefits of such a scheme are so obvious. After all, the UK has youth mobility schemes with 13 other countries – including Australia and Japan – so it makes sense to have one with our nearest neighbours and closest partners.
“Dismissing the idea of reciprocal youth mobility simply meant letting down British young people who face all sorts of economic difficulties, and have seen their horizons curtailed by Brexit. Young people want and deserve the chance to study or work in Europe. The government owes it to them to make sure they get that chance.”
Dr Mike Galsworthy, Chair, European Movement UK, said:
“This is welcome news. We need to start pulling this country out of the no-growth quagmire and start giving people hope for a better, brighter future.
“Liberating our youth and small businesses alike to engage is an important start. Hopefully the Government will now see that being bold, hopeful and engaged with Europe brings a sigh of relief from the public and a more positive outlook for the UK.”
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