Union hits out at plans for single hourly rate

NFU Scotland (NFUS) has hit out at plans to introduce a single minimum hourly rate for all agricultural workers, irrespective of age or duties.

The proposals from the Scottish Agricultural Wages Board (SAWB) could see all workers paid a minimum rate equal to the UK national living wage.

NFUS chief executive Scott Walker said the proposals could put Scottish farmers at a disadvantage to their counterparts elsewhere in the UK because the UK national living wage only applies to workers over the age of 25.

“That higher cost must be matched by a commitment from processors and retailers not to simply buy on price but to support and source Scottish farm produce,” said Mr Walker.

Other proposals from the SAWB are to pay new workers undertaking a six-month SCQF Level 4 or equivalent qualification an hourly rate of £5, and to increase the hourly rate for workers undertaking a 12-month SCQF Level 5 Modern Apprenticeship in Agriculture to £5.

The board also proposes a 6p increase to an additional sum of £1.20 an hour for workers with an appropriate qualification, and a 40p per dog increase for the working dog allowance.

NFUS chief executive Scott Walker said the proposals could put Scottish farmers at a disadvantage