A recent YouGov poll commissioned by the campaign group Best for Britain indicates a significant majority of voters support the establishment of an “Australian-style” youth mobility scheme between the United Kingdom and the European Union. The survey, which included nearly 15,000 respondents, revealed that 66 per cent of voters are in favour of such a scheme, while only 18 per cent oppose it. This sentiment spans across all constituencies in the UK, highlighting widespread appeal.

Of particular note was the reaction in Clacton, a constituency represented by Nigel Farage, a prominent figure in the Brexit movement. Despite its strong pro-Brexit leanings during the 2016 referendum, the poll found that 57 per cent of Clacton residents support the youth mobility proposal, with only 25 per cent against it. Similar trends were observed in traditionally Labour constituencies known as red-wall seats, such as Bishop Auckland, where support stood at 63 per cent against 19 per cent opposition, and Ashfield, whose figures were 59 per cent in favour and 22 per cent opposed.

The proposed scheme would allow young workers and students from the EU to live and work in the UK for a limited period, while concurrently granting British youths aged 18 to 30 similar rights within the EU. Despite this being a potentially beneficial arrangement, it has emerged as a contentious point in the ongoing negotiations between London and Brussels. Government officials are wary that it could be perceived as a reinstatement of freedom of movement—a key element of the Brexit debate—and may represent a betrayal of the referendum’s outcome. Still, senior Labour figures such as London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan have expressed public support for the initiative.

Cal Roscow, director of campaigns at Best for Britain, stated, “This is the clearest evidence yet that an EU-UK youth mobility scheme is among the least controversial issues in the government’s relationship reset with the EU, even in places that elected a Reform UK member of parliament.” Roscow further asserted that both voters and business owners see the potential benefits of youth mobility, labelling it as advantageous for young individuals and the economy.

Labour MP Andrew Lewin echoed this sentiment, urging the government to seize this opportunity to extend prospects for young people while also aiming to fulfil the objective of economic growth. Similarly, Liberal Democrat Europe spokesperson James MacCleary emphasised the necessity of listening to public opinion, asserting that the government should proactively include the youth mobility scheme in discussions with Brussels.

As the UK government continues its negotiations with the EU, Downing Street has been approached for comments regarding the state of these discussions and the proposed youth mobility scheme, but a response has yet to be provided.

Source: Noah Wire Services