The Welsh Government has mandated increases averaging 6% in minimum pay rates for all categories of agricultural workers in Wales
The new rates, which range from £6.72 an hour to £9.97 an hour, come into effect on 26 February. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have retained Wages Boards to protect agricultural pay structures following the abolition of the AWB in England in 2013. A recent Farmers Guardian survey found that 70% of respondents in England felt the dissolution of the AWB had had a negative impact on the industry. However, Farmers Guardian also reports that nationwide plans to raise the National Minimum Wage (which places a legal floor under AWB settlements) to £9 an hour by 2020 threaten the viability of some farms. Scottish fruit and vegetable growers, in particular, report that it would put them at a competitive disadvantage. Read more about Sustain's work on farming policy and pay here.
Published Friday 12 February 2016
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
