Harvest rots for lack of casuals

14 July 2000



Harvest rots for lack of casuals

FRUIT is rotting in the fields because farmers are unable to find casual workers interested in harvesting it, reports the Daily Telegraph.

Thousands of tons of fruit destined for shops and supermarkets – including strawberries, raspberries and cherries – are going to waste, says the paper.

It adds: “Seasonal farm work has become less attractive since the Inland Revenue cracked down on untaxed casual earnings.”

Home Secretary Jack Straw is re-examining the number of overseas students currently allowed into the country to help with harvesting.

• Daily Telegraph, page 13