... we recognise UK growers have concerns over the potential impact changes to the Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit (SMETA) could have on the UK seasonal worker scheme.

There is a need for clear guidance to all Sedex members to ensure the smooth and effective rollout of SMETA 7.0...

Whilst we recognise our responsibility to upholding high standards of purchasing practices with our many trusted suppliers, we would draw attention to the ongoing struggle faced by British growers in providing solutions to labour shortages through the UK Government’s Seasonal Workers Scheme (SWS). Tesco is working closely with our suppliers and the industry to address these challenges but understand greater support is needed from the government to provide longer-term solutions.

We are pleased that DEFRA has announced their contribution of funding and engagement in the Employer Pays Principle (EPP) feasibility study through the SWS Taskforce...