End of free movement leaves industry unclear on workers

A move that will cut off non UK workers after 31 October has this week seen the NFU of England and Wales respond by saying it was “incredibly concerned” by the suggestion.

The proposal by the Home Office changes the existing Leave to Remain policy so that it will no longer apply post-brexit, leaving farmers and growers with no clarity about how they will access workers after Brexit.

The union’s reaction comes after Home Secretary Priti Patel commented that freedom of movement would end on 31 October. A subsequent blog from the Home Office did not include any reference to the existing Leave to Remain policy, which allowed workers to apply to stay for up to 36 months.

In the blog, the Home Office says that arrangements for people coming to the UK for longer periods of time and for work and study would change and that details of other changes and improvements to the previous government’s plans for a new immigration system are “being developed”.

Taking up the issue, the union has asked for clarity about how EU workers can come to the UK post-brexit. The letter also reiterates the crucial role the foreign nationals play delivering food to the British public.

Deputy president Guy Smith said: “The NFU is incredibly concerned that the Home Office has seemingly removed the existing Leave to Remain process which would enable EU citizens to enter the country after 31 October.

“With no current alternative arrangements being communicated by government, a critical supply of people for food and farming will be cut off overnight and our members feel it leaves an irresponsible gap in government policy.”