“believe the veg shortages (all gone now I understand) were down to withdrawal of british supplies since we didnt subsidise their energy use, and a bad winter in Spain and N Africa. Nothing to do with Brexit”
Not strictly true, farm workers wages have been forced up by Brexit, which adds to the pressures put on farmers that are already facing energy price hikes.
Yep, a lack of seasonal migrant workers due to Brexit has led to an increase in costs.
Also energy costs:
The New Statesman reported: “Had Brexit not happened, the British government would have been forced to go along with European Union decisions on how to help farmers through this situation, meaning that British growers might have had more support. The UK has decided not to include horticulturalists in its energy support scheme; in the EU a €500m support package has helped farmers to grow fruit and vegetables on fallow land.
And ease of trade:
After Brexit, Britain increased its dependence on imports from Morocco – which is not in the EU – especially for crops like winter tomatoes. The government trumpeted the roll-over trade deal it managed to sign with Morocco. But when there isn’t enough to go around, it is easier and more profitable for those suppliers to sell to the EU. With no direct freight ferry, UK importers have to manage direct logistics from Morocco to UK retailers, crossing two EU borders en route. Moroccan farmers can sell produce to EU-wide wholesalers, rather than small, unprofitable UK export firms.
There are several other reasons, but not much point as I imagine 'the lady's not for turming'
