MPs to scrutinise Brexit impact on EU youth programme

The education select committee inquiry will look at the future of the European Union's (EU) Erasmus+ training and study programme, amid concerns that UK citizens will be unable to take part in it once the country leaves the EU.

Prime Minister Theresa May announced at the weekend that Article 50 - the mechanism to begin the formal process of leaving the EU - will be triggered by the end of March 2017, with Brexit being completed by mid 2019.

Through Erasmus+ - a student exchange programme, which has been running for 29 years and funds individuals to study, train, volunteer and gain work experience in Europe - nearly £7m was given to youth projects and groups in the UK last year.

The student exchange programme is open to young people, students, apprentices, trainees and volunteers, as well as youth workers, teachers and the professionals of organisations working in the youth, sport, education and training sector.

Earlier this year, youth leaders warned that Brexit could see youth groups and professionals lose out on Erasmus+ funding.

Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats recently called on the government to ensure that the participation of young people from the UK in the Erasmus+ programme continues following Brexit.

The committee's assessment of Erasmus+ is part of a broader inquiry that will examine the implications of Brexit on UK universities, students and staff wanting to work and study at higher education institutions in Europe, and similarly EU students and staff that want to study at higher education institutions and work in the UK.

Neil Carmichael, chair of the education select committee, said it is hoped that the inquiry will influence Brexit negotiations.

He said: "The committee is keen to hear from university leaders, academics, students and others, as we examine the opportunities for higher education post-Brexit and consider what the government's priorities should be for the sector going into the negotiations with the EU."

??Written submissions can address the future of the Erasmus+ programme, risk and opportunities for UK students, protections for existing EU students and staff, and the impact of Brexit on UK and EU students.

The deadline for written submissions is 11 November.