Farmers await clarity on seasonal worker quota

Industry leaders in the horticulture and poultry sectors are pressing the new Labour government to clarify its plans for the Seasonal Worker scheme, amid uncertainty about the future of visa allocations.

The previous Conservative government announced during the Farm to Fork Summit at 10 Downing Street in May a commitment to extend the scheme to 2029, with a gradual reduction in visa numbers over time.

See also: Fruit and veg growers oppose planned audit changes

For 2024, the quota was set at 47,000 visas, with 45,000 allocated for horticulture and 2,000 for poultry.

However, since taking office, Sir Keir Starmer’s Labour government has not announced its stance on the continuation of this support, leaving many in the industry feeling anxious.

The NFU and other stakeholders argue that the lack of clarity regarding the 2025 quota is undermining confidence in the sector, prompting farm businesses to delay crucial investment decisions.

At the NFU Council’s recent quarterly meeting in Stoneleigh, Martin Emmett, chairman of the horticulture and potatoes board, spoke about the importance of a reliable workforce for crop production.

“We are still waiting for this government to confirm numbers on the Seasonal Worker visa scheme for next year,” Mr Emmett said.

He added: “What sort of business can operate with that degree of uncertainty? This really has to be expedited.”

Efforts are being made within the horticulture industry to recruit more British workers and those with settled status, including through apprenticeships.

However, Mr Emmett warned, “If we don’t have seasonal workers available to pick crops, we are not going to get them picked”.

Ali Capper, executive chairwoman of British Apples & Pears Limited, echoed these concerns, noting that the lack of clarity on the seasonal worker quota is hampering investment in the fruit and vegetable sectors.

“It’s all about business certainty and confidence. We want to double production of British apples, but we need assurance on the availability of labour,” she said, calling for a five-year rolling scheme and longer visa durations.

However, Farmers Weekly understands the government has no plans to extend the seasonal worker visa length from six to nine months.

‘Everything on hold’

Jack Ward, chief executive of the British Growers Association, said licensed operators, responsible for recruitment, need immediate confirmation of the quota to effectively plan for the upcoming season.

“Companies like Concordia and Pro-Force have potential recruits ready to go, but everything is on hold until the government gives the green light,” he explained.

A UK government spokesperson said: “We understand the importance the farming sector places on the Seasonal Worker route and will always seek to ensure industry needs are met.

“Further announcements regarding quotas for 2025 will be made in due course.”