Welsh Government's Agricultural Sector Bill

Reacting to the Supreme Court ruling which confirms that the Welsh Government's Agricultural Sector Bill is enforceable within the devolution settlement, Wales TUC General Secretary Martin Mansfield said:

'Today's decision will be welcomed by thousands of agricultural workers across Wales, who collectively stand to lose around £1 million per year in falling pay without the agreements secured via the Agricultural Wages Board.

'Many in the sector work long hours in tough jobs that attract around just 75% of the average wage. The Low Pay Commission also found that semi skilled trades people faced a particularly sharp fall in wages as a result of the abolition.

'It is totally unacceptable that this court hearing was instigated by the UK Government and the Welsh Government has been vindicated in its efforts to restore fairness to the industry in Wales. The equivalent boards across Scotland and Northern Ireland have continued their work whilst farm workers in Wales have been left fearing the worst for their livelihoods as UK ministers were yet again determined to undermine devolution in Wales.

'Across England and Wales UK ministers have attempted to deliberately force wages down for low income workers who deserve better. It is just and right that farm workers in Wales will now continue to enjoy representation and protection via the Agricultural Wages Board. The TUC will continue to make robust calls for farm workers across England to be extended the same rights.'

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