Food and Drink Sector Labour Supply 2021-10-28
2021-10-28
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns over labour shortages in the food and drink industry, impacting business operations.
What recent discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the adequacy of labour supply for the food and drink sector. I am concerned about delays and shortages, whether of lorry drivers or butchers, causing huge concern and anxiety to business owners and consumers alike.
My Department has regular dialogue with all the supermarkets and the major food manufacturers. They had some anxiety around their ability to deliver for Christmas about a month ago. That is why we acted expeditiously to introduce those temporary visa schemes. I can say that confidence in the industry is now higher, and it is gearing its logistics chains to make sure that we have food on the shelves. It is an improving situation.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about further action before Christmas was not directly addressed with a concrete plan or commitment.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from concerns over labour shortages in the food and drink industry, impacting business operations. Dayle Evans, a landlord and business owner, faced difficulties reopening his pub's kitchen due to produce sourcing issues.
Delays and shortages, whether of lorry drivers or butchers, are causing huge concern and anxiety to business owners and consumers alike. Dayle Evans, a landlord and business owner in my constituency, was unable to reopen his pub's kitchen for eight weeks due to difficulties sourcing produce. As we approach the Christmas season, which is the busiest for hospitality, and given the issues of last Christmas, what further action can the Government take to ensure that the shortages are resolved before that busy period is upon us?
My Department has regular dialogue with all the supermarkets and the major food manufacturers. They had some anxiety around their ability to deliver for Christmas about a month ago. That is why we acted expeditiously to introduce those temporary visa schemes. I can say that confidence in the industry is now higher, and it is gearing its logistics chains to make sure that we have food on the shelves. It is an improving situation.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about concrete steps before Christmas was not directly addressed with a clear plan or commitment.
Response accuracy