The UK government has provided clear guidelines to farmers and growers in the poultry, sheep and horticulture sectors regarding seasonal workers.

Highlighting the government’s desire to support these industries is the announcement that 43,000 seasonal worker visas have been made available for horticulture and 2,000 for poultry throughout 2025.

This announcement has been welcomed by the sectors and will assist in satisfying the substantial demand for labour within the industry. Seasonal workers within these areas will assist in the distribution of berries, rhubarb, turkey and many varieties of flower to market.

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In addition, the government is working with poultry farmers to reduce cost and protect against the threat of avian influenza. It is also promoting fairness in the supply chain for sheep farmers by implementing legislation that mandates sheep carcass classification and price reporting, ensuring producers receive a fair price for their livestock.

Food security minister Daniel Zeichner said: “This government recognises that food security is national security, and this can only be achieved by supporting food and farming businesses.

“Confirming the seasonal worker visa allocation for 2025 gives growers and producers certainty, allowing them to plan ahead and secure the labour they need to grow and thrive.

“This package of measures will also support farmers by protecting our poultry producers from the impact of avian flu outbreaks and ensuring fairness in the sheep supply chain.”

Defra have also published their 2023 Seasonal Worker’s Survey Report, which aims to monitor the wellbeing of migrant employees.

Over 90% of respondents reported positively regarding their time in the UK with 95% conveying a desire to come back. Alongside international partners they are striving to improve communications abroad to fully inform potential seasonal workers of what the job will entail and how to avoid unnecessary additional costs.

New measures for egg and poultry labelling will also be introduced to help farmers cope with future avian influenza outbreaks. Currently, eggs from free-range birds can only be labelled as 'free-range' for 16 weeks after mandatory housing orders, leading to significant costs for the industry.

The new rules will allow free-range eggs to retain their labelling during these housing measures. This change will be introduced through legislation on November 4 and is expected to take effect in January 2025, ensuring fair competition for UK free-range egg producers compared to those in the EU.

Additionally, a consultation is being launched to propose similar changes for free-range poultry labelling, removing the current 12-week limit and the requirement for optional certificates for imported poultry meat.