UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves Unveils Ambitious EU Youth Migration Plan Ahead of Budget Deadline
In a bid to boost economic growth and improve the outlook of public finances, UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has pushed for an ambitious EU youth migration plan ahead of the autumn Budget. According to sources close to the government, Reeves is advocating for a "youth experience visa" scheme that would allow young workers from the EU to stay in the UK for up to two or three years.
The proposed exchange program, which was agreed upon by the UK and EU in May this year, aims to provide a significant economic boost to the country. Economists expect the move to have a positive impact on public finances, reducing the need for spending cuts or tax rises. Reeves has called for the Office of Budget Responsibility (OBR) to factor the potential economic impact of such a scheme into its forecasts ahead of the Budget.
Reeves' plan has been met with both praise and criticism from experts and politicians alike. While some see it as a way to support young people and businesses in the post-Brexit era, others argue that it amounts to a partial return to freedom of movement. According to Reeves, however, the scheme is "good for the economy, good for growth, and good for business." She has emphasized that the proposed visa would not grant permanent residency or citizenship rights to young workers.
The specifics of the scheme are still being negotiated between the UK and EU, but it is expected to issue thousands of visas annually. Young workers aged 18-30 would be eligible to apply for the visa, which would allow them to stay in the UK for two years with no right to remain. Reeves has expressed her hope that the plan will demonstrate the government's commitment to supporting young people and businesses.
Reeves' push for an EU youth migration scheme comes as the UK prepares for its autumn Budget. The Chancellor has stated that she hopes the plan will reduce the need for spending cuts or tax rises, which would be a welcome relief for many in the country. According to Reeves, "this is not just about numbers on a spreadsheet; it's about giving young people and businesses the support they need to thrive."
The UK government has been working towards implementing a youth experience visa scheme since May this year. The plan was agreed upon by the UK and EU as part of a broader agreement on migration. While some critics have argued that the scheme is too similar to freedom of movement, Reeves has emphasized that it is a distinct program designed to support young workers.
As the negotiations between the UK and EU continue, experts are closely watching the developments. According to Dr. Emma Taylor, an economist at the University of Oxford, "the proposed visa scheme could have a significant impact on public finances, but it's essential to carefully consider the details and ensure that the program is implemented effectively."
The current status of the plan is that negotiations between the UK and EU are ongoing, with no clear timeline for implementation. However, Reeves has expressed her optimism about the potential benefits of the scheme, stating that "we're committed to making this work and providing a boost to our economy."
This story was compiled from reports by BBC Business, BREAKING: BBC Breaking and BREAKING: BBC Breaking.