Speaking to The Observer on Saturday (20 January), Khan criticised the government’s “hard-Brexit”, saying he would back a youth mobility scheme – or changes to the post-Brexit visa scheme – as they would benefit London “economically, culturally and socially”. “While the UK may no longer be part of the EU, London is – and always will be – a European City,” said the mayor.
Under the mobility scheme, young Brits would be able to travel, study and work in the bloc with the same rights as young Europeans. The mayor’s comments were lauded by Abta, with director of public affairs Luke Petherbridge saying the scheme “would benefit all part of the UK tourism industry – inbound, outbound and domestic”.
“It’s an ‘off-the-shelf’ policy solution that really should be seen as a win-win by everyone,” said Petherbridge. “It’s encouraging to see leading political figures getting behind it.”
Following the UK’s departure from the EU, Abta – along with Seasonal Businesses in Travel – have lobbied Westminster to address the restrictions on labour mobility caused by Brexit that have impacted the outbound tourism industry.
According to Abta research, the number of UK workers in tourism roles across the EU has fallen by 70% since the end of the Brexit transition period in 2021.
Mobility restrictions have also affected sectors already suffering staffing shortages, such as tourism and hospitality, as the rules have made it more difficult for UK companies to recruit European staff.
Over the past few weeks, senior Abta officials have been meeting with politicians from across the political spectrum to discuss a hypothetical youth mobility scheme.
Petherbridge was seen talking to shadow tourism minister, Labour’s Barbara Keeley, last week, while discussions have also been held with the Liberal Democrat lead on transport and climate change, Wera Hobhouse, as well as the party’s tourism lead, Jamie Stone.
