Overseas sheep shearers given UK travel go ahead

International sheep shearing contractors have been given a special concession to travel into the UK amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

This allows shearers into the UK from countries unaffected by Covid restrictions, the National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) has confirmed.

The NAAC said shearers from Australia and New Zealand, and other non-visa nationals, will be able to travel to the UK between 1 April and 30 June.

See also: How shearing lambs can improve growth and reduce labour

All those entering will only be allowed to stay for a three-month maximum period (the latest expiry of leave would be 30 September), after which they are required to leave.

Big relief

Jill Hewitt, NAAC chief executive, said: “It is a big relief that the concession is now in place and we can start putting together the necessary paperwork for shearers to safely enter the UK.”

Revised NAAC guidelines for the 2021 season can be accessed online.

The Covid-19 checklist includes planning steps, communication and hygiene measures.

Extra care around social distancing and remaining safe from the virus mean processes will be slower, stressed the NAAC.