The European Union is allegedly pressuring the UK government to retract plans for deporting more European criminals as part of a "reset" in relations, a Daily Mail comment piece reported. Negotiators in Brussels are also said to be pushing for concessions, including a "youth experience scheme" that could allow up to 100,000 EU nationals into the UK annually.
According to the report, a draft plan outlines demands for cheaper university fees and easier entry for EU nationals. British food exports may also be required to meet Brussels' standards. The Daily Mail characterized these potential agreements as "humiliating concessions" and a "Brexit betrayal," suggesting that the EU seeks to impose "demeaning punishment" for the UK's departure.
The commentary further alleged that Andy Burnham is ready to accept these terms, despite not holding a mandate for such actions, and criticized his perceived willingness to re-engage with the EU. The article expressed concern that current demands are the "thin end of the wedge" and could escalate if the UK moves closer to full EU membership.
Separately, the Daily Mail comment piece also touched on domestic issues, linking "ill-conceived policies" by the Labour party to increased youth unemployment. It cited research indicating a rise in the cost of hiring young workers and a decrease in job vacancies, resulting in a significant number of young people not in education, employment, or training (Neets).