UKH urges UK and EU to agree on flexible youth experience scheme

UKH has urged the UK government and the European Union to pursue a youth experience scheme with “maximum flexibility” for critical cultural exchange and economic benefit.

The call comes as the UK and the EU have recently announced a new deal which includes a number of measures intended to improve the relationship between the two. 

Both the UK and the EU have agreed to co-operate further on a “youth experience scheme”, which would allow young people to work and travel freely in both the UK and Europe.

While it is subject to further negotiation, any scheme will be capped and time-limited. It has said it would mirror existing schemes with Australia and New Zealand. 

In addition, there is a new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement on food and drink, which should ease trading between the UK and EU. This includes some routine checks on animal and plant products that will be removed completely.

Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UKHospitality, said: “The new agreement with the EU to remove trade barriers is positive news for hospitality businesses and will help to further increase access to high-quality, affordable food and drink for business and consumers alike. We’re pleased that there is a clear commitment to co-operate further on a youth experience scheme.

“These schemes are beneficial for those already working in hospitality, tourism and other cultural sectors to live and work in either the UK or EU. Not only does it provide economic benefits, but it also provides new opportunities for critical cultural exchange, which ultimately delivers richer experiences for customers.”

She added: “I urge both parties to pursue a model with maximum flexibility, and mirroring existing schemes with Australia and New Zealand is a sensible approach.”