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Written question asked by Stuart C McDonald (Scottish National Party) on Tuesday, 21 November 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 23 November 2023. It was answered by Robert Jenrick (Conservative) on Wednesday, 29 November 2023 on behalf of the Home Office.

Agriculture: Seasonal Workers

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, if she will undertake a review of the seasonal workers scheme.

Answer

The Home Office does not publish data concerning farm visits under the seasonal workers scheme.

The Seasonal Worker team undertakes farm visits to check sponsor compliance by interviewing farm managers, checking worker accommodation and speaking to sponsored seasonal workers.

If evidence of underpayment is identified, that is investigated in line with published Sponsor Guidance and action taken if necessary. UKVI do not compensate sponsored workers for loss of earnings.

Anonymity is offered to workers speaking to our officers; workers are also able to report concerns via the online reporting tool. Full details of how to report information to the Home Office are available at: www.gov.uk/reportimmigration-crime

Allegations of abuse should also be reported to the Gangmasters Labour Abuse Authority. Details of how to do this are available on the GLAA website, at: www.gla.gov.uk/report-issues/english-report-form/

The Government keeps the Seasonal Worker route under close ongoing review. Separately, the independent Migration Advisory Committee announced on 22 March 2023 that it is conducting a review of this route.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
2910
Session
2023-24
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Agriculture Migrant workers Seasonal workers
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk