Farms and supermarkets could pay to bring foreign farm workers to UK, government-commissioned report says
Farmers could foot foreign workers’ upfront costs to travel to UK
- A government-commissioned report suggests British farms and supermarkets could address the exploitation of seasonal fruit and vegetable pickers by covering their travel and visa costs, estimated to be between £850-£1,500 per worker.
- The study, undertaken for the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), proposes four models where recruiters, farms, retailers, or consumers bear the costs, potentially adding 1-3 pence per week to consumer fruit and vegetable prices.
- The research estimates that implementing the 'Employer Pays Principle' would cost £43.1 million in total and eliminate debt for 18,200 workers, with 70 per cent of seasonal workers currently accruing debt to come to the UK.
- While retailers and worker representatives largely support the proposal, many farmers are concerned it could threaten worker commitment, as the current system incentivises hard work to clear debts.
- Independent anti-slavery commissioner Eleanor Lyons urged the government to act, highlighting the increased vulnerability of seasonal workers who face excessive hours, debt bondage, and challenging conditions.