New deal could still hold challenges for farmers
In recent weeks the UK has seen the reality of the new deal struck by the Government with the EU.
Yes, it may be without tariffs or quotas, but no-one could argue it's been a smooth transition to a new trading relationship.
Agricultural businesses importing and exporting have still to wade through a mass of customs red tape and the supply chain issues are likely to continue for some time.
But perhaps the biggest challenge for some farmers is yet to come – labour. In previous years, around 70,000 seasonal workers from the EU would have been employed by agricultural and horticultural businesses in the UK.
And although the Government has agreed an extension to the seasonal agricultural workers’ scheme, only around 30,000 will be allowed to cross the border to work at farms in 2021.
We’re working with rural businesses currently as they review their employment contracts, re-examine their contracts with overseas suppliers and customers and help them understand new regulations now in place following Britain’s exit from the EU. As always, our advice is that putting plans in place now will potentially save costly delays later in the year.
Sarah Baugh, Partner with FBC Mandy Bowdler’s Agricultural and Rural Services team.
