31 Accepted

There is a range of views on the Committee regarding a Youth Experience Scheme.

Conclusion
There is a range of views on the Committee regarding a Youth Experience Scheme. Whilst there is an understanding that such a scheme would be a way of providing young people on both sides with new opportunities to travel and work, and strengthen cultural and personal ties between the UK and its European partners, the Committee agrees that it must be distinct from free movement of people, be visa-based and only permit stays of 91 limited duration. It should also be subject to adequate safeguards, including limits on overall numbers. We are clear that this must not be a return to free movement and any potential costs must be clearly set out and subject to a final vote in Parliament. We heard from witnesses to our inquiry that establishing such a scheme enjoys widespread support across the country and in the EU. (Conclusion, Paragraph 92)
Government Response Summary
The government highlights a deal with the EU to rejoin Erasmus+ in 2027 and ongoing negotiations on food and drink, Emissions Trading Schemes, and the single electricity market.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government Accepted
Since the Summit, the Government has struck a deal with the EU to rejoin Erasmus+ in 2027 – fulfilling a key commitment made at the UK-EU Summit and opening up world-class opportunities for young people across the country. The UK and EU have also concluded exploratory talks on the UK’s participation in the EU’s internal electricity market. Towards the end of last year, we started technical negotiations on a food and drink agreement that will cut costs and red tape, and on linking our Emissions Trading Schemes – which could help UK companies avoid paying taxes on up to £7bn of exports. Our focus this year is all about driving forward – including finalising the food & drink and Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) deals, securing a balanced agreement on Youth Experience, and starting negotiations on joining the single electricity market. We will also continue our cooperation through the UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership to support our shared goal of strengthening European defence.
Source
Committee Foreign Affairs Committee
Inquiry The UK-EU reset: rebuilding a strategic partnership in uncertain times
Report 3rd Report – From a Common Understanding to Common Ground: Building a UK-EU Strategic Partnership fit for the future 04 Mar 2026 HC 857
View on Parliament website
Addressee Bodies
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Timeline
Recommendation age 0.2 yrs
Report published 04 Mar 2026