Coming to our senses': Readers on return of EU student exchange scheme

"Several commenters argued the UK should never have left Erasmus, portraying the original withdrawal as ideological rather than practical, and harmful to students who had no say in the referendum. For these readers, rejoining is seen as a clear win for young people, universities and cultural exchange, helping rebuild ties with Europe and restore opportunities to study, train and live abroad."

"Others stressed that while the move is positive, it is modest rather than transformative. Some questioned the government's reluctance to go further by rejoining the customs union or agreeing wider mobility arrangements, warning that Erasmus alone does not undo the broader economic and social costs of Brexit. A smaller number were critical of the deal, arguing the UK risks paying too much or accepting unfavourable terms."

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The Independent emphasizes on-the-ground reporting across topics such as reproductive rights, climate change and Big Tech and seeks donations to fund journalists while keeping content paywall-free. Independent readers broadly welcomed Britain rejoining the Erasmus student exchange scheme, framing it as a long-overdue correction that benefits students, universities and cultural exchange and helps rebuild ties with Europe. Some readers described the move as modest rather than transformative, questioned why the government did not pursue wider EU arrangements such as the customs union, and warned that Erasmus alone cannot reverse broader economic and social Brexit costs.

Read at www.independent.co.uk