Plan proposed to introduce ‘barista visa'

by XPRESS, 19 April 2017

A new “barista visa” could be introduced to ensure London’s coffee shops and pubs are still fully staffed after Brexit.

Under the plan, young European citizens will still be able to work in the UK’s hospitality industry after it exits the EU. The proposal is based on a Youth Mobility Scheme for travellers from Australia, New Zealand and Canada.

It comes after the British Hospitality Association warned the shortage of British workers in restaurants is so severe that many will go bust without a steady stream of migrants. The scheme was suggested by Migration Watch UK chairman Lord Green and a senior Home Office source said it was a “good idea”.

Using the so-called “barista visa”, European citizens’ time in Britain will reportedly be strictly limited to two years. And they would not be able to claim benefits or free housing under the proposed scheme.

Explaining his plan, Lord Green told The Sun: “We can kill two birds with one stone here. We can meet the needs of pubs and restaurants and maintain our links with young Europeans by allowing them to come for a strictly limited period of two years to work.”