MP’s clarity call on fruit farm safety

A Perthshire MP has called for greater clarity from farming leaders over the implementation of social distancing.

John Nicolson, MP for Ochil and South Perthshire, was speaking as thousands of seasonal fruit-picking jobs are advertised across Tayside and Fife.

In a letter signed by Mr Nicolson and five of his SNP colleagues, he raised concerns about transport to and from farms, and the close proximity of workers when picking certain fruits and vegetables.

He also called on the National Farmers Union Scotland (NFUS) to issue a public statement on social distancing measures.

Over 3000 berry-picking jobs have been advertised in Fife and Tayside over the last month following a massive recruitment drive by farms and the NFUS.

Mr Nicolson said: “Given the cruel blow that COVID-19 has dealt to many people’s ability to work and earn, it’s encouraging to see new job opportunities at farms throughout my constituency who are now advertising ahead of the summer months.

“It’s critical that farms are able to recruit the staff they need to ensure that essential produce continues to reach the nation’s dinner tables in these extraordinary times.

“However, it’s also crucial that employers prioritise the health and safety of workers, many of whom will be working on a farm for the first time in their lives.

“I want to be able to reassure my constituents that their welfare will not be put at risk by going to work in our world-renowned food and drink sector.

“For that reason, I hope to see NFUS issue a statement to the public on behalf of farms throughout the country, to outline the necessary health and safety precautions being taken to guarantee that social distancing measures are upheld throughout the pandemic.”

However, NFUS director of policy Jonnie Hall said the body could not “enforce social distancing”.

He added: “What we have done from the outset is highlight what’s required and urge full compliance at farm level through safe and demonstrable social distancing.

“Farms and crofts across Scotland are working incredibly hard to continue to provide the absolute essential of food during this difficult time. Our priority, as the voice of Scottish agriculture, is to help ensure sustained production of safe, high quality food, produced to the most exacting of standards, while also doing all we can to minimise the risk of transmitting COVID-19. It is the responsibility of each and every one of us to do whatever it takes to carry out effective social distancing.”

NFUS horticulture chairman James Porter insisted the body had used its “webpages, social media, blogs and news releases to issue guidance to all farming businesses on the need to fully adhere to and comply with social distancing”.

He added: “Horticultural businesses are aware of their responsibilities and will continue to meet the highest food hygiene practices. “