United Kingdom Eyes Youth Mobility Scheme with EU
The shift in public mood and growing recognition of the EU as a trustworthy ally are driving Labour's re-evaluation of its stance on Europe, with a potential "reset" deal with the EU taking precedence over a trade deal with the US, and the Liberal Democrats championing the youth mobility scheme as the "right step forward" for the UK's future.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has expressed support for a youth mobility scheme that would grant freedom of movement to 18-30 year olds from the UK and EU, aiming to boost Britain's economy and strengthen cross-Channel ties.
The proposed scheme, modelled on similar programs in countries like Australia and Japan, would include a cap on the number of participants. The idea has gained support from over 60 Labour MPs, but has faced opposition from some Tory and Reform UK MPs who see it as a major Brexit betrayal. Meanwhile, Labour is becoming bolder on Europe, driven by a shift in public mood, with many Brexit voters now more open to the idea of closer ties with the EU, particularly among younger voters.
A new deep dive by the Good Growth Foundation found that 47% of Labour leave voters now want closer cooperation with the EU on defence and security, and 11% of British voters believe Brexit has turned out well. The Labour party is now considering a youth visa deal with the EU, allowing 18-30 year olds to live and work in member states for at least a year, in an effort to give young people a chance to broaden their horizons and address the brain drain of young people leaving the UK.
As the UK navigates its post-Brexit relationship with the EU, the proposed youth mobility scheme and potential youth visa deal could mark a significant shift in the country's approach to Europe, with potential implications for the economy, security, and the future of young people in the UK.