The inquiry into skills and labour in the dairy sector is being held by the Dairy APPG, with a panel comprised of four members of the group and representative MPs of all political parties.
The inquiry is focussing on three areas:
- Skills in the dairy industry;
- The government’s role and actions;
- Brexit challenges and opportunities for the dairy workforce.
Following consultation with members, the NFU also submitted a written response which sets out NFU activity in the areas the inquiry is focusing on, and also puts forward a number of recommendations where we believe further action is required. The submission includes on farm case studies from NFU dairy members.
The NFU is also part of the Food Chain Workforce Strategy Group, which is chaired by FDF. As part of the group, the NFU will shortly be launching a survey on labour on farms in the UK, to gather evidence to further strengthen our labour asks of government.
Speaking after the session, NFU Chief Dairy Adviser Sian Davies said: “The NFU recognises the importance of being able to source appropriate labour on dairy farms, which is vital for a thriving, competitive and confident dairy sector. However, the outcome of the EU referendum, current exchange rates and the impact of a long, deep market downturn has led to a number of immediate challenges in recruiting quality workers in the UK. The inquiry by the Dairy APPG is therefore timely and we welcomed the opportunity to submit evidence.”
Chair of the APPG and PPS to the Farming Minister, Simon Hoare MP, said: “The UK dairy industry provides a myriad of jobs from farm to fridge across the country. From farming to processing and manufacturing, from research to marketing and much more, there is something in the dairy sector for everyone. As the UK gets ready to write a new chapter of its history, we must help the dairy industry strengthen its position as an attractive industry, with opportunities for all to build a successful and rewarding career. Therefore, the Dairy APPG is keen to hear from dairy experts to get a better understanding of how it can support the sector going forward.”