Citing a government source, The Times reports a reciprocal deal on youth mobility could be offered as a key olive branch to the EU following Brexit.

The paper said the new UK government had no plans to agree free movement of people generally, but could allow EU nationals under 30 to work in the UK for up to three years, with identical rights given to UK citizens wanting to work in Europe – something Abta has long advocated for.

Formal negotiations are likely to start in the autumn when new EU commissioners are in place, The Times report added. It said the UK government was keen not to attract allegations it is reversing immigration elements of Brexit but was in favour of some reinstatement of the freedom to work abroad.

The latest news follows tentative talks between the previous government and the European Commission in the spring. Any deal could mean renewed rights for UK travel firms to post staff overseas in roles such as reps, ski guides and chalet hosts.