Pick for Britain and Seasonal Agricultural Workers Schemes 2020-10-15
2020-10-15
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question arises from an ongoing assessment of two UK government schemes aimed at addressing labour shortages in horticulture and agriculture. These include the Pick for Britain campaign and a seasonal agricultural workers pilot scheme.
What assessment has been made of the (a) Pick for Britain scheme and (b) seasonal agricultural workers pilot scheme?
The Pick for Britain campaign generated nearly 2 million unique page views since its launch, resulting in a significant number of UK-based workers filling seasonal roles. The evaluation of the pilot scheme is ongoing and will be announced at a later date.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific evidence or data supporting the effectiveness of both schemes has not been provided; only general statements about interest and impact are given.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The Secretary of State previously claimed that one-third of the seasonal horticulture workforce was from the UK in 2020. This question seeks evidence supporting this claim and further asks about meeting labour requirements for next year.
Could the Secretary of State provide evidence to support his claim that one third of the seasonal horticultural workforce in 2020 was UK-based? Could he confirm what plans his Department has to meet the industry's urgent need for workers?
During last summer, regular dialogue was held with horticulture sector companies. At the beginning of the season, a significant number of domestic workers took up roles, initially around one-third, but this dropped to below 20% by season's end based on anecdotal evidence.
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Assessment & feedback
Anecdotal evidence was provided instead of concrete data or formal reports. No specific plans for meeting next year's labour requirements were detailed.
Response accuracy