Labour shortages seen in the hospitality sector will only worsen under new government immigration plans, trade bodies have warned.

Changes to the immigration system announced yesterday will “further shrink” the talent pool hospitality businesses are recruiting from and contribute to greater shortages, UKHospitality said.

UKH chief executive Kate Nicholls said the government seemed to be “running out of answers” to fix the UK’s labour market shortages.

According to Nicholls, some 95% of the 8,500 skilled chefs and managers brough to the UK under hospitality visas would no longer be eligible due to the changes.

“These changes will further shrink the talent pool that the entire economy will be recruiting from, and only worsen the shortages hospitality businesses are facing,” she said.

“Around three-quarters of hospitality’s workforce is filled from within the UK, but international talent has always been attracted to work in the UK, due to our pedigree for hospitality and developing careers. These critical workers also bring with them a wealth of experience and skills to help further enhance our world-leading hospitality sector.”

“There were 8,500 hospitality visas issued last year, which helped bring in talented chefs and managers of the future. Around 95% of those would no longer be eligible under these plans, despite being offered competitive salaries.

“We urgently need to see an immigration system that is fit-for-purpose and reflects both the needs of business and the labour market. The system at the moment does none of that.”

Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, added that the changes will be a “blow for many pub businesses”, and make it untenable for many to recruit from overseas alongside.

“The government need to consider ways to reduce the overall costs and complexities of the immigration system, recognising that many businesses in this sector are SMEs and a balanced immigration strategy that addresses concerns on overall numbers but also fuels growth and supports British businesses,” she said.

“As we enter the festive season, staff shortages in pubs can be exacerbated and skilled roles such as chefs and kitchen staff can be even harder to recruit the best staff.

“We support the Government’s ambition of expanding the Youth Mobility Scheme, but this must be done at pace. We also need greater flexibility in the use of the apprenticeship levy, so that it can be used for a range of training options that will develop recruits from the domestic workforce.”