Shortage of chefs threatens the Balti curry

A shortage of chefs is threatening the existence of the Balti, Birmingham's favourite dish according to Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCI).

In its response to a consultation from the Migration Advisory Committee which advises the government, the Chamber says that Birmingham's Asian restaurant and catering firms are facing huge problems in recruiting suitably qualified and experienced staff, mainly head chefs.

This is despite the West Midlands having the highest rate of unemployment of over 10%.

The Chamber is lobbying the Migration Advisory Committee to give more importance to the occupation of a chef which the organisation says should be listed on the second National Occupation Shortage List.

Kiran Virk, policy advisor at the Chamber said: "In Europe people train to be professional waiters but in the UK the sector is seen as a stepping stone between jobs. The hospitality sector must be seen as a valid arena to gain real work experience and to establish a professional career."

The Chamber argues that if vacancies cannot be filled locally then the government should support businesses to recruit from abroad and says that it is important to collate data on where labour shortages are occurring.

Virk continued: "The global movement of labour is a two-way process and the UK must create a balance between the import and export of the workforce in order to remain competitive in the global economy.

"The art of mastering cooking professionally, especially Asian cuisine, requires at least 3-5 years practical experience under the supervision of a qualified and experienced chef. The government must also look into providing incentives to encourage employers to offer apprenticeships.

"The industry should work much more closely with schools, colleges and universities, influencing the courses that are on offer and ensuring that employees of the future are produced with not only the relevant qualifications but also real work experience in a business environment."

The Balti Triangle in Birmingham is made up of more than 50 restaurants across the areas of Sparkhill, Sparkbrook and Balsall Heath.

It is estimated that over 20,000 Baltis are served there every week.

Words: Clare Riley

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