MPs support call to allow migrants to work in UK
FARMERS and other rural businesses have received a boost from MPs who have backed a call to reintroduce a scheme for migrants to continue working in roles vital to the rural economy.
A report from an influential group of MPs backs comments made by the CLA on how labour constraints would affect farmers’ ability to feed the nation postBrexit.
CLA Cymru, which represents landowners, farmers and rural businesses, gave evidence to the House of Commons Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee inquiry earlier this year.
In its evidence to the committee, which includes two Welsh MPs, CLA Cymru called for a scheme to allow migrants of both EU and non-EU countries to enter the UK for a set period of time and for a specific job vital to the needs of the rural economy.
CLA Cymru repeated the message in evidence to the Welsh Affairs Select Committee for their inquiry on agriculture and Brexit, reiterating it in oral evidence presented to the committee.
CLA Cymru director Rebecca Williams said: “The rural economy is already under pressure from labour shortages and the committee has recognised our concerns. They are entirely right to say that the UK agricultural sector will fail to feed the nation successfully without access to migrant workers.
“We agree with the committee that a Seasonal Agricultural Workers’ Scheme is the best way to ensure continued access to a skilled and secure workforce.
“The problem is that the Government is not acting fast enough to deal with this immediate issue. Every week that goes by without a commitment to introduce a suitable scheme creates risk for businesses across the rural economy.”