The EU is ramping up pressure on Keir Starmer’s Labour government to ‘reset Brexit’ by allowing young Europeans to come to Britain for four years with their families.
European leaders believe the youth mobility scheme, known as the ‘backpackers and baristas’ deal, is a step Britain needs to take after slamming the door on immigration when Brexit ended freedom of movement.
A leaked document from the EU says the bloc views the policy as “an indispensable element” of negotiations with London.
It is not the first time the EU has hinted at its position on youth mobility, confirming they are in no mood to back down on this requirement.
The scheme is causing something of a rift in the Labour party, particularly given the delicate national debate surrounding immigration levels.
Prominent politicians like Sadiq Khan and Andy Burnham are in favour, whereas Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is rumoured to be staunchly opposed.
Critics argue the scheme is the beginning of slippery slope leading back to freedom of movement which, given current unprecedented levels of immigration, the country can’t handle.
Proponents point to the fact the UK has similar schemes in place with countries like Canada, New Zealand and Australia and stress the proposed deal ‘is not a return to freedom of movement.’
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Europe Minister Stephen Doughty told MPs: “We’re not going to give a running commentary on our discussions with the EU, and the Minister for Cabinet Office [Nick Thomas-Symonds] and others have already given a clear statement on this issue.
“We’ll continue to look at EU proposals on a range of issues, but we will not return to freedom of movement, but we are committed to finding constructive ways to work together and deliver for the British people.”
The scheme looks as though it is becoming a sticking point between the UK and its former bloc as negotiations on larger issues like security, trade and fishing rumble on.
More specifically, the UK Government wants mutual recognition of professional qualifications, veterinary agreement and linking emissions trading systems, but the EU is increasingly looking like it will only keep these options on the table if youth mobility if granted.
The leaked EU document adds: “The implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement by the UK needs to be substantially improved.”
If London wants Brussels to engage on British priorities, it may have to shift.