SNP concern over seasonal worker shortage

Richard Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment has confirmed he will lobby the UK Government over the shortage of seasonal agricultural workers.

The confirmation, in a letter to South of Scotland MSP Aileen Campbell, has been warmly welcomed.

Ms Campbell wrote to the Scottish Government after soft fruit and vegetable growers reported upcoming labour shortages and fears that fruit and vegetables grown in Scotland will go unpicked.

In his response Mr Lochhead said;

“As you know this is a reserved matter, but one that has a clear impact on Scottish interests. I will therefore be writing to Liam Byrne MP, Minister of State for Citizenship and Immigration at the Home Office to ask him to reconsider his position on this, given the potential impact on our soft fruit and field vegetable sectors, in particular.”

Ms Campbell said;

“This action by Richard Lochhead is very welcome. I hope the UK Government will listen to his request, reconsider the limitations placed on this scheme and allow more seasonal workers into Scotland to support our fruit and veg industry.

“Growers have been warning for some time that they face a shortage of workers and that if action is not taken fruit and vegetables will be left in the fields rather than sold in the markets.

“As Scotland’s farmers face a tough time with rising fuel costs and pressure to keep prices down, the thought of missing out on vital income because the fruit can not be picked is devastating.

“The UK Government must meet with the growers, talk to the Scottish Government and reconsider their actions this year and ensure there are no future changes without genuine industry consultation.”