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Germany’s ambassador to the UK, Miguel Berger, stated that the dramatically shifting geopolitical landscape is a strong reason for renewed cooperation between the United Kingdom and the European Union. Speaking on April 25 to The Today Programme, Berger emphasized that today’s security challenges demand stronger collaboration between democracies, allies, and nations that share common values. He expressed optimism ahead of the upcoming UK-EU summit on May 19, where security and defense in Europe will be key topics of discussion.
Berger suggested that a youth mobility scheme is under negotiation, which would operate on a “one in, one out” principle—setting limits on the total number of EU nationals living in the UK and vice versa. This scheme, however, is not being officially supported by the UK government at present. A spokesperson for the government told The PIE that there are “no plans” for such an agreement, reaffirming its consistent stance amid ongoing political concerns about migration.
Despite this, momentum is building around the idea. The possibility of a mobility scheme is surfacing as Keir Starmer’s government prepares to release a new Immigration White Paper, expected to focus on lowering legal migration numbers. At the same time, pressure is mounting within the Labour Party—more than 60 Labour MPs recently signed a letter urging the Prime Minister to support a time-limited visa scheme for 18-to-30-year-olds from both the UK and the EU. Such a move is seen as a key European demand in the pursuit of deeper trade relations with Brussels.
Berger pointed out that this kind of mobility agreement is not a return to full freedom of movement, but a practical, limited-time program—typically lasting up to three years. He also highlighted that the changing geopolitical realities are prompting the UK to reconsider its relationships with both the US and the EU.
English UK, a leading organization in the language education sector, echoed this view, stating that the proposal could gain wide support among the British public. A spokesperson said they were encouraged by recent signs of openness from senior government figures, even as no formal proposals have yet been presented to Home Secretary Yvette Cooper. According to The Times, sources close to the government confirmed that Cooper is open to a capped EU mobility agreement.
Sir Nick Harvey, CEO of the European Movement UK, welcomed the potential shift in policy, noting that the government’s previous resistance to such a scheme had become increasingly indefensible given the clear social and economic benefits. He underlined that these programs offer valuable opportunities for young people to work, study, and gain international experience.
Berger concluded that the proposed scheme would help eliminate barriers for young people, especially those from low-income families, by giving them access to work and study opportunities abroad. “We want this to go both ways,” he said, underscoring the mutual benefits of such cooperation.
