Non-UK shearers to be allowed entry to tackle 'mammoth task' of shearing flock

The UK doesn't have sufficient shears to tackle the mammoth task of shearing the UK flock this summer
The UK doesn't have sufficient shears to tackle the mammoth task of shearing the UK flock this summer

Shearers will be allowed to enter the UK this year to provide the skills needed to remove the wool of millions of sheep this summer.

The National Association of Agricultural Contractors (NAAC) has announce the move, which will allow shearers to enter in a time-limited window.

A special Home Office concession will continue to allow this very specific group of non-visa nationals to travel to the UK, particularly coming from Australia and New Zealand, between 1 April and 30 June.

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

The UK doesn't have the sufficient domestic workforce to handle the task, according to NAAC.

Commenting, Jill Hewitt Technical Consultant at the NAAC said: "We have continued to work with the Home Office and are pleased that UK shearing contractors can continue to access this source of expertise from across the world.

"We don’t have sufficient UK shears to tackle the mammoth task of shearing the UK flock and it is vital for animal welfare that fleeces are removed to protect sheep from over-heating and flystrike."

Shearers arriving in the UK in coming weeks will need to satisfy the immigration officer to be employed as a sheep shearer.

The NAAC is thus supplying necessary paperwork to enable a smooth entry process.

Specific entry requirements

• The applicant is genuinely seeking entry for the purpose of undertaking employment, or providing services, as a sheep shearer, and must supply an appropriate contract of employment

• The applicant will be able to maintain and accommodate himself without recourse to public funds

• The applicant will leave the UK at the end of their stay

• The applicant arrives in the UK for this purpose between 1 April and 30 June.