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LONDON: The business backlash against moves by the UK government to curb immigration intensified, of late, as farmers' leaders warned that a shortage of overseas workers could close parts of their industry.
In a letter to Lord Whitty, food and farming minister, which has been seen by the Financial Times, Tim Bennett, president of the National Farmers' Union warned that sections of the agriculture and horticulture industries, which have annual sales of more than £3.0bn, could be forced to close if their freedom to employ migrant workers was impaired by the government's proposed policies. The industry has already seen the number of permits issued under the seasonal agricultural workers scheme reduced from 25,000 last year to 16,250 this year.
Bennett fears that Labour's plans to tighten rules for low-skilled workers from outside the European Union (EU) could mean the end of SAWS, which allows foreign workers to work for six months a year picking fruit, vegetables and flowers. The letter to Lord Whitty warns: "While the UK economy remains strong and there is very low unemployment, agriculture will continue to experience labour shortages."
Charles Clarke, home secretary, argues that any gaps in the Jabour market caused by tighter controls on non-European migrants could be offset by easier access for workers from countries that joined the EU last year.
John Cridland, deputy director of the CBI employers' organisation, said: "Well-managed migration, where new migrants' skills complement those of workers already here, is essential." He said the construction industry could have severe problems without the option of being able to recruit from abroad.
The Britiak Hospitality Association also expressed concern that the curbs could affect catering establishments that employed non-EU workers.
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