Students from the EU and the UK will continue receiving support under the Erasmus+ programme in the event of a no-deal Brexit.
The European Parliament’s Culture Committee discussed with the EU Commission proposed new contingency measures for the Erasmus+ programme, whereby 14,000 students from EU countries and 7,000 British students will be supported – should the UK leave the EU without a deal.
What does the new legislation establish?
The proposed legislation establishes that all mobility activities under the current Erasmus+ programme that started before 30 March 2019 will be funded until they are completed (for a maximum of up to 12 months). This will include British students, traineeships, apprentices and staff engaged in mobility activities in the EU countries and vice-versa.
According to the Commission, this decision will not incur any budgetary implications, as the budget for the programme has been previously approved under the current long-term budget. Therefore, the continued support is not an issue financially.
The law will go through a fast-track procedure
The legislation is applicable only if the UK leaves the EU with no-deal, however if the law is to be adopted before the 30 March 2019, it is imperative that it goes through a fast-track procedure.
The vote is set to take place during the next committee meeting on 20th February, with a full house voting in a March plenary session. The Parliament has stressed that any negotiations with the Council should allow for a swift agreement and the legislation should be published before the date of the withdrawal.
Erasmus+ programme
Erasmus+ is a European Union programme for education, training, youth and sport. It aims to modernise education across Europe, whereby; young people can study, volunteer and gain work experience aboard in order to develop new skills, gain vital international experience and boost their employability; staff can teach or train abroad, building relationships with international peers; and UK organisations can collaborate with international partners.
