We are closely engaged with industry to ensure that we are informed of the latest intelligence on labour supply and demand, now and in the future. Ministers meet with representatives from the food and farming industry to discuss a range of issues, including securing the workforce that they need.
In September, the Farming Minister met representatives of the horticulture and agriculture industries at Defra’s Seasonal Workforce Working Group. This meeting explored future access to seasonal labour for the agricultural industry and best practice of attracting and retaining workers. On 5th December he attended the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Fruit and Vegetable Growers where he heard sector’s experience of the 2017 season. Government keeps its position on seasonal workers under ongoing review.
Agriculture needs to attract entrepreneurial, talented new entrants who can rise to the challenges and opportunities that will occur in the sector in coming years. The Government provides grant support to the National Federation of Young Farmers Clubs (NFYFC) to provide training opportunities and promote and support entry into the farming sector. The Government’s reforms to technical education will provide clear routes to skilled employment in agriculture and other sectors. The Chancellor announced over £500 million of additional funding a year will be invested once routes across all sectors are fully implemented.
With regards to the EU nationals living in the UK already, the Government has been clear from the beginning of our negotiations that protecting their rights is our priority, and on 8th December agreement on this was reached with the EU. After we leave the EU, we must have an immigration system which works in the best interests of the UK – controlling immigration whilst continuing to welcome those who make an invaluable contribution. The Government is considering the options carefully, and will ensure that businesses and communities, including representatives from across the food chain, have the opportunity to contribute their views. We encouraged industry to contribute to the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) call for evidence, as this will inform the future immigration framework.
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