Seasonal worker shortage hits food harvest at farms across Scotland

Scottish farmers have reported problems harvesting due to a shortage of seasonal workers, a survey has found.

Thenationalfarmers’union Scotland (NFU Scotland) surveyed farmers growing soft fruit, potatoes and vegetables and 48 per cent said they had difficulty harvesting in 2017 due to labour shortages.

All of the 54 producers responding to the survey, which was carried out between 19 January and 5 February, said they were either “concerned” or “very concerned” about the future impact a shortage of workers 0 Alyn Smith is concerned about the new figures would have their businesses. A total of 65 per cent of respondents reported recruiting non-uk workers was more challenging in 2017 than in 2016 and 74 per cent expect this to increase in 2018. Questioned on what action they will take if sufficient seasonal workers cannot be recruited, 58 per cent of respondents are “likely” or “very likely” to downsize, while 42 per cent said they would cease current activity.

Most (61 per cent) said they would increase wages to attract staff, and 52 per cent said they would automate production. SNP MEP Alyn Smith said the intervention strengthened the case for retaining freedom of movement.

He said: “Farmers want to grow the food we eat...and their warning today is stark.”