Complaints in the agricultural sector

Freedom of Information Act Request

Ref: FOI 21-22 12

Date issued: 23 September 2021

Subject: Complaints in the agricultural sector

Question(s):

I am writing to make a request under the Freedom of Information Act 2000 about agricultural workers on the UK’s farms. 

I would like to know the following: 

1.     Can you please tell me how many complaints the GLAA has received concerning poor employment conditions, accommodation standards or issues with salaries from individuals working on UK farms since January 2020? Where possible, can you please identify whether or not the complainant was employed as part of the Seasonal Workers Pilot Scheme.

2.     Can you also tell me how many complaints the GLAA has received from workers about Sandfields Farms Ltd https://www.gs-fresh.com/sandfields-farms in Stratford Upon Avon since January 2016.

3.     Can you please tell me how many complaints the GLAA has received about the ‘Gs’ Group https://www.gs-fresh.com/ since January 2016.

Response:

In the agricultural sector since January 2020 we have received: 

·       43 referrals linked to an allegation regarding accommodation. 1 of those referrals was linked to Seasonal Workers Pilot Scheme (SAWS).

·       149 referrals linked to an allegation regarding salaries. 4 of those referrals were linked to SAWS.

·       93 referrals linked to an allegation regarding working conditions. 4 of those referrals were linked to SAWS. 

It is important to note, we cannot easily extract information relating to farms from our database, as accuracy of data relies on allegations and sectors being correctly linked to the referrals. Some referrals may also have more than one allegation recorded against it. Therefore, it is worth noting that this information may not capture all complaints we have received about UK farms. 

When considering questions two and three, the GLAA considers the information you have requested as exempt under section 30(1) of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), because of the condition at section 30(1)(a). The GLAA is able to apply this exemption as section 1 of the Modern Slavery Act (2015) sets out its powers and responsibilities in respect of offences committed under the Act and also our powers and responsibilities under the Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004. 

Having considered that the requested information is exempt under section 30(1) it is necessary to consider the public interest test to identify whether there is a wider public interest in disclosing this information as opposed to maintaining the exemption. The GLAA is committed to the integrity of our reporting and ensuring the wider public feel confident in their ability to report any concerns to the GLAA. The GLAA believes that the interests of the public are better served through maintaining the exemption.