LONDON — Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has suggested that a youth mobility scheme could be part of a new UK–EU agreement, in what would mark a significant step toward expanding post-Brexit ties without restoring full freedom of movement.

Speaking to The Times ahead of a key UK–EU summit set for Monday at Lancaster House, Starmer emphasized that any scheme would be reciprocal and limited in scope, allowing young people to live and work abroad for a fixed period — potentially up to two years.

He stressed it would not amount to a return to pre-Brexit arrangements.

“We have a red line in our manifesto about freedom of movement,” Starmer said. “Youth mobility is not freedom of movement.”

Although details such as age eligibility or quotas have yet to be finalized, the proposal would mirror similar schemes the UK already holds with countries like Australia and Canada.

The UK currently offers visas for young nationals from 12 non-EU countries, including South Korea and Japan, with capped quotas and time limits.

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch criticized the proposal, calling it “free movement through the back door,” while Reform UK warned it could open the door to a broader EU migration return.

Still, government officials argue that such arrangements would provide much-needed labor in sectors like hospitality and healthcare, particularly in London.

Mayor Sadiq Khan said a mobility scheme could “put rocket boosters up businesses,” especially those facing acute staff shortages.

European relations minister Nick Thomas-Symonds last week confirmed that the government was “actively considering” the proposal as part of a broader partnership package with the EU.

He described it as a “smart, controlled” step that could benefit both British and European youth.

The upcoming summit — the first high-level gathering since Brexit — will also touch on broader trade issues and fishing rights.

While the agreement expected Monday will only be “in principle,” Starmer described the talks as a “really significant moment” to boost UK living standards and economic opportunities. — BBC