Importance of migrant workers pressed on Leadsom

New Defra secretary Andrea Leadsom has been left in no doubt about the essential contribution overseas labour makes to the UK horticulture industry.

Fears that the industry could lose its vital workforce were raised during a meeting between Mrs Leadsom and English NFU president Meurig Raymond.

“The loss of labour post Brexit could have a devastating impact on the horticulture industry – not only damaging the competitiveness of the sector but could also, in the most severe cases, lead to a loss of crops,” he said.

The formulation of a new domestic agricultural policy was also on the agenda at the meeting and Mr Raymond said he hoped to be able to shape Defra’s plans for a domestic agricultural policy following a consultation with the union’s 47,000 farmer and grower members.

“I impressed on Mrs Leadsom the importance of the NFU and the farming industry working closely with Defra to get the best possible access to markets both in Europe and the rest of the world,” he said.

“We want to work together to put in place enablers for improved competitiveness including access to labour.

“In return the country will feel the benefits of a profitable, productive and innovative food and farming industry which is committed to delivering improvements in health, wealth and environment for the British people.”

Mr Raymond added that with the right policies in place British farming and food production could continue to be a major part of the economy while at the same time boosting its capacity to produce food for a growing population.

Meurig Raymond.