The National Farmers Union (NFU) has acknowledged the government's confirmation of the Seasonal Workers Scheme (SWS) for 2025, emphasizing the necessity for a long-term strategy to ensure the stability of the UK's horticulture and poultry sectors. The NFU has been actively engaging with the government to highlight the essential role of seasonal workers in the agriculture sector. A survey indicated a strong desire among workers to return to the UK, with 95% of respondents expressing this sentiment.
NFU President Tom Bradshaw stressed the importance of long-term planning for farming and growing businesses, which are currently facing low confidence levels and challenges in worker availability that hinder growth. The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has also recognized the significance of the SWS for domestic food security and the need for a lasting scheme. Bradshaw urged the government to swiftly publish its response to the MAC report to provide the necessary assurance to the agriculture sector.
The government has allocated 43,000 visas for horticulture and 2,000 for poultry for 2025. This decision follows discussions between NFU representatives and political figures, including meetings with the then Shadow Home Secretary Yvette Cooper and Defra Secretary Steve Reed. The Seasonal Worker visa route's extension aims to prevent disruptions in the food supply chain and ensure the availability of essential food items during the festive season.
The announcement was accompanied by the release of Defra's 2023 seasonal worker's survey report, which showed a high level of satisfaction among workers, with 91% reporting a positive experience in the UK. Food Security Minister Daniel Zeichner highlighted the government's commitment to food security and the role of the SWS in achieving this goal. The government is also focusing on improving working conditions through farm and welfare checks in collaboration with international partners.
The NFU continues to advocate for a long-term growth strategy for the horticulture sector, emphasizing the need for stability and certainty in labor availability as critical components for the industry's development.