Outrage erupts after migrant butchers found to be paid MORE than British workers

The meat industry has warned that migrant butchers could be paid more than British workers due to new immigration rules and a post-Brexit labour shortage.

In April, new laws introduced by the Conservatives saw the salary threshold for a skilled worker visa surge by more than £12,000 to £38,700.

Previously, those brought in were paid the same as a similarly qualified UK worker – a starting wage of £26,200.

The industry is struggling to recruit nationally with EU citizens making up 70 per cent of abattoir employees.

The British Meat Processors Association said: “It forces companies in need of migrant workers to take on overseas butchers at £38,700.”

Experienced butchers can earn up to £40,000.

High salaries for migrant butchers could prompt equal pay lawsuits from UK workers, the British Meat Processors Association added.

“If they can recruit neither British nor overseas workers they’re left with one choice – contract their business and reduce the number of animals they buy from British farmers and the amount of food they produce in the UK,” the association said.

Abattoirs could also be forced to scale down if vacancies are not filled.

“British livestock farmers can’t survive without abattoirs,” the association added.

More to follow…