Tory peers speak up for agricultural workers

AGRICULTURAL workers and farmers could be left behind by “one size fits all” policies on seasonal work, Conservative peers have said.

- PRESS ASSOCIATION REPORTERS

Discussing amendments to Labour's flagship Employment Rights Bill, Conservative shadow business minister Baron Sharpe of Epsom said: “We have repeatedly made the point that Government should not pursue a one-size fits all approach to the labour market.

“For farmers, in particular, the labour force rises and falls with the seasons. Harvesting, planting, fruit picking and livestock management all depend on the rhythms of nature not the administrative convenience of Whitehall, or indeed limited scope contracts.

“The reality is that a farm cannot simply hold on to staff year round, when the work itself exists for only a defined and limited period. The same can be said for many other seasonal industries. That is why 26 weeks has long been recognised across seasonal industries as the appropriate reference period.”

‘The amendment would give a set definition for seasonal work, including noting it “substantially” reduces in some parts of the year.

Baron Collins of Highbury, deputy leader of the Lords, said: “The current one-sided flexibility can leave people unclear when they will be next paid, get next paid work, and unclear how much time they need to keep available for work.