The UK Government and the EU has announced a number of measures intended to improve the UK-EU relationship.
UKHospitality urged both parties to pursue a youth experience scheme with “maximum flexibility”, for critical cultural exchange and economic benefit.
What was announced?
- 1
Youth mobility
The UK and EU has 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.
- 2
Food and drink agreement
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 will be removed completely.
- 3
Passport gates
British travellers will be able to use more eGates in Europe, which should reduce queues.
Our response
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.
“I urge both parties to pursue a model with maximum flexibility, and mirroring existing schemes with Australia and New Zealand is a sensible approach.”
