SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL & FINANCE


Brexit may pose a problem to the freedom of movement of workers


One of the top legal firms in the county with offices in Plymouth and Kingsbridge, Beers LLP, says the challenges facing Devon and UK businesses are still revealing themselves since the Brexit Referendum of June 2016, comments partner Julian Parry. Mr Parry said: "One of the key


concerns that local businesses need to be aware of is how Brexit could alter the supply of unskilled labour." “The South West depends on an


easy supply of EU workers in areas such as agriculture, and this is likely to be affected by the removal of the principle of the freedom of movement of workers,” he said. “It is now looking more likely


that Devon businesses will need to seek permission from UK authorities to employ EU workers after Brexit, unless free movement is retained in any final deal with Europe,” said Mr Parry. “At the moment, if you are a


non-EU national and you want to come and work in the South West, then you generally need permission to enter the country in one of the permitted categories of workers


Migrant agricultural workers


and depending on where you come from, an appropriate visa. “Local businesses wanting to


employ from outside of the EU will often need to obtain a work permit before the individual comes to the UK to work. “And in most cases, local


employers will need to demonstrate as part of the application process that businesses are unable to find British and EU workers to fulfil the roles,” he said. If Brexit results in citizens of EU


countries being treated in the same way, then South West firms could potentially see further skills shortages, added Mr Parry. “It may be necessary for the


British Government to revisit the criteria for work permits or other visas are granted after Brexit. Local businesses who rely on overseas workers should start considering contingency plans now.”


Beers LLP has over 130 years of


experience in providing services including employment, property, private client, dispute resolution, company and commercial, family and matrimonial, and personal injury claims.


Anyone looking for more information about BEERS LLP can contact: info@beersllp.com or visit the website: www.beersllp.com


November/December 2017 Chamber Profile 21


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