Former Tory Minister Urges Reopening of UK Borders to Address Labour Shortages
In a surprising move, former Tory environment secretary George Eustice has called for the UK government to welcome young workers from EU nations to tackle the acute post-Brexit labour shortages. Eustice, a prominent Brexiter, emphasized the need for a reciprocal visa scheme that would allow individuals under 35 to work in the UK for a period of two years. This proposal aims to address the labour shortages that are driving up inflation and contribute to a much-needed “post-Brexit reconciliation” with European neighbors.
Challenges of Immigration Policy Post-Brexit
George Eustice criticized the skills-based immigration rules implemented by the Home Office, stating that they fail to meet the country’s economic needs. He highlighted the mismatch between the current list of approved professions and the sectors facing severe labour shortages, such as the food industry. Eustice emphasized the need to rectify this imbalance by commencing bilateral negotiations with EU member states, starting with countries like Bulgaria, Romania, and the Baltic states, and eventually expanding it to encompass the entire EU.
Addressing Immigration Policy Failures
Eustice made it clear that the labour shortages and resulting inflationary pressures were not caused by Brexit itself but rather by the failure of the post-Brexit immigration policy. He criticized the absence of temporary visa schemes after Brexit, which he attributed to former Prime Minister Theresa May’s interpretation of Brexit rather than the original intentions of the Vote Leave campaign. Eustice stressed that Brexit was about controlled immigration, not a complete halt to all immigration.
Reciprocal Youth-Mobility Visa Scheme
The proposed reciprocal youth-mobility visa scheme would allow young Europeans under 35 to work in the UK for two years, while UK citizens under 35 would have the same opportunity in the EU member states with which deals were struck. The scheme aims to fill labour vacancies in sectors experiencing acute shortages and help alleviate inflationary pressures. Eustice emphasized that this proposal does not seek a return to EU freedom of movement but rather aims to find a solution that benefits both the UK and its European neighbors.
Rekindling Post-Brexit Friendship with Europe
George Eustice highlighted the importance of post-Brexit reconciliation and rekindling friendly relations with European neighbors. He acknowledged that the proposal could serve as a positive step towards rebuilding relationships after the UK’s departure from the EU. By facilitating cross-Channel mobility and fostering youth exchanges, the scheme could contribute to increased cooperation and understanding between the UK and EU nations.
The Economic Impact of Labour Shortages
Labour shortages, primarily affecting the food, hospitality, and service sectors, have led to rising wages and prices, exacerbating the cost of living crisis. Eustice’s proposal seeks to address these shortages by enabling the recruitment of young workers from EU nations, alleviating pressure on these sectors and supporting economic stability.
Response from EU Nations
While some EU governments, like Germany, have expressed enthusiasm for enhanced mobility between the UK and the EU, France has been more reserved. However, officials from France’s Europe ministry have acknowledged the importance of maintaining bilateral mobility and ensuring the proper implementation of the Brexit trade and cooperation agreement.
George Eustice’s call for reopening the UK’s borders to young EU workers reflects an acknowledgment of the labour shortages resulting from Brexit and a recognition of the need to address them urgently. By proposing a reciprocal visa scheme, Eustice aims to establish a post-Brexit reconciliation with European neighbors and provide relief to sectors experiencing acute labour shortages. The proposal seeks to strike a balance between controlled immigration and addressing the economic needs of the UK while fostering cooperation and friendship with EU nations.
Read more: We need more EU workers, admits leading Tory Brexiter (by Toby Helm, Political Editor, and Jon Henley)
Tags: work in Great Britain
