A SINGLE minimum level of pay for agricultural workers has been agreed by the Scottish Agricultural Wages Board.

From April 1, 2020, this represents an increase of 3% across all allowances including a single minimum hourly rate for all agricultural workers, irrespective of age and duties, that is equal to the UK Government’s National Living Wage.

An hourly rate of £5.46 for apprentices who undertake an SCQF Level 4 or 5 Modern Apprenticeship in Agriculture or equivalent qualification. An additional sum of £1.29 per hour for workers who have an appropriate qualification.

Change will also include an additional allowance of £6.43 per working dog up to a maximum of 4 dogs. Lastly, an increase in the daily rate of the accommodation off-set for accommodation other than a house that is equal to the rate detailed under the UK Government’s National Minimum Wage.

NFU Scotland chief executive Scott Walker commented: “The Wages Board recognised that the agricultural minimum rate of pay has risen significantly in recent years and that this trend shows no sign of slowing with all political parties indicating that they see the minimum rate of pay continuing to rise significantly.  As a result, the Wages Board has agreed that for next year the minimum level of pay for agricultural workers, irrespective of age and duties, will be equal to the UK Government’s National Living Wage.

 

“Over the past 20 years, the UK’s minimum wage has grown faster than those in all comparable OECD countries apart from New Zealand," he continued. "When the national minimum wage was introduced, the UK was in the middle of the OECD’s real minimum wage rankings. Having grown faster than almost all comparators, the UK is now in the group of high minimum wage countries.  The food supply chain must recognise that wage rates have increased significantly and will continue to do so.  The prices paid for produce must reflect the increase in the cost of production,” he concluded.