Lockhead retains agricultural wages board

The Scottish Agricultural Wages Board (SAWB) will be retained following the introduction of a new apprenticeship rate and to ensure vulnerable workers are protected.

Following a consultation on the future of the Board Richard Lochhead, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, today announced in Parliament that he had concluded that it should be retained.

The need for a SAWB will be reviewed again in 2011.

Mr Lochhead said:

"Now that the SAWB has confirmed the wage rates for apprentice workers, the government is able to take a view on future arrangements.

"Over 80% of farm workers are in fact paid at market rates above the Wages Board minimum so the market is largely determining pay rates. But the Board still has a role to play in guiding wages decisions, and in protecting the minority of agricultural workers who are on minimum pay and conditions.

"Attracting the next generation into farming is crucial to its sustainability. The new Level II Apprenticeship for agriculture, backed by increased Scottish Government funding and in conjunction with the apprenticeship rates confirmed by the Board last week, will make it easier for employers to take on young workers.

"In the light of these developments and against the backdrop of the current economic climate, I have decided to retain the SAWB , subject to a further review once we can judge the success of the Level II apprenticeship."