The Prince of Wales has encouraged those looking for work to consider a job picking fruit and vegetables in place of the overseas workers who cannot reach the UK under the current Covid-19 restrictions.

Speaking out in support of the Pick for Britain campaign, His Royal Highness said: "I do not doubt that the work will be unglamorous and, at times, challenging. But it is of the utmost importance and, at the height of this global pandemic, you will be making a vital contribution to the national effort."

The Pick for Britain website was launched by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board last month, in an effort to bring all the separate agricultural recruiters into one place for those seeking employment.

Scotland Secretary Alister Jack commented: “Many of Scotland’s farms, in particular our soft fruit growers, rely on seasonal labour. As we near peak harvest time I urge jobseekers to sign up for this crucial work at the Pick for Britain website or the GOV.UK Find a job platform.

“I am in no doubt British workers and students will seize the opportunity to feed the UK and help the economy in these most challenging of times. Together, the UK Government, industry and workers will save the Scottish strawberry and our other delicious produce.”

The UK Government has already confirmed that those who have been furloughed from their jobs due to the coronavirus – and who are contractually allowed to work for another employer – can take on this seasonal work while continuing to receive 80% of their salary from the government.

Interested parties are advised continue to check the Pick for Britain website regularly as it will continue to be updated with new opportunities as the demand for fruit and vegetable pickers grows over the coming months. British workers will continue to have the opportunity to make some extra money and help to feed the nation right up until the autumn months.

https://pickforbritain.org.uk/