Environmental Secretary Andrea Leadsom reveals EU fruit pickers will continue to live and work in UK

THE Environment Secretary let slip that mass freedom of movement will continue for cheap EU farm workers.

Prominent Brexiteer Andrea Leadsom paid “tribute to the many workers from Europe who contribute so much to our farming industry and rural communities” in her first major speech in the job.

And the former Tory leadership contender insisted she is “absolutely committed” to ensuring farmers are able to access migrant harvesters.

British farming relies heavily on EU migrant labour, with 95 per cent of berries grown Britain picked by European workers.

The key Vote Leave supporter said: “I also know how important seasonal labour from the EU is, to the everyday running of your businesses.”

She told the Oxford Farming Conference on Wednesday: “I’ve heard this loud and clear around the country.”

“Whether in Herefordshire, Sussex, or Northamptonshire, and I want to pay tribute to the many workers from Europe who contribute so much to our farming industry and rural communities.

“Access to labour is very much an important part of our current discussions – and we’re committed to working with you to make sure you have the right people with the right skills.”

But UKIP’s agriculture spokesman Stuart Agnew  hit back branding Mrs Leadsom’s speech “ill-considered.”

The Norfolk farmer and MEP went on: “Until we trigger Article 50, she, the government and the industry will remain hamstrung by EU control of the sector.

“If we want British farming to prepare for a life outside the EU with all the concerns and opportunities that departure will throw up, and we must, then the Government needs to get on with it”.