Industry Calls on Government to Clarify Seasonal Worker Scheme Amid Uncertainty

Leading figures in the UK horticulture and poultry sectors are urging the new Labour government to clarify its position on the Seasonal Worker scheme, as concerns grow over the future of visa allocations vital to their industries.

The previous Conservative government had committed to extending the scheme until 2029, announced at the Farm to Fork Summit at 10 Downing Street in May. However, this extension came with a gradual reduction in visa numbers, adding to the sector's unease.

For 2024, the scheme was capped at 47,000 visas, with 45,000 allocated to horticulture and 2,000 for poultry. Yet, since Sir Keir Starmer's Labour government took office, there has been no confirmation regarding future support, particularly for 2025, leaving businesses in a state of uncertainty.

Industry leaders, including the NFU (National Farmers' Union), have expressed their growing frustration, warning that the lack of clarity is stifling investment and undermining confidence. Speaking at the NFU Council’s quarterly meeting in Stoneleigh, Martin Emmett, chairman of the NFU Horticulture and Potatoes Board, emphasised the pressing need for a stable workforce.

“We are still waiting for this government to confirm numbers on the Seasonal Worker visa scheme for next year,” Emmett said. “What sort of business can operate with that degree of uncertainty? This really has to be expedited.”

Efforts are being made across the horticulture sector to reduce reliance on overseas workers, including initiatives to recruit more British workers and those with settled status, such as through apprenticeships. However, Mr Emmett cautioned that these efforts may not be enough to prevent serious shortfalls.

“If we don’t have seasonal workers available to pick crops, we are not going to get them picked,” he added, highlighting the potential consequences for British agriculture.

Ali Capper, executive chairwoman of British Apples & Pears Limited, voiced similar concerns, stressing that the uncertainty surrounding the seasonal worker quota is hindering critical 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,” Capper said. She called for a five-year rolling visa scheme and longer visa durations to help businesses plan for the future.

However, reports suggest that the government has no immediate plans to extend the duration of seasonal worker visas from six to nine months, a key demand of the industry.

Jack Ward, chief executive of the British Growers Association, also underscored the urgent need for clarity. He noted that licensed operators responsible for recruitment, such as Concordia and Pro-Force, are in limbo until the government provides confirmation of the 2025 visa quota.

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

In response to the growing calls for action, a UK government spokesperson reassured the industry that its needs were being considered. “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,” the spokesperson stated.

As the sector waits for clarity, the uncertainty continues to cast a shadow over future production plans, leaving industry leaders and businesses hoping for swift government action to resolve the impasse.