Rebecca Williams, National Trust Wales’ Assistant
Director, Conservation facilitated the discussion about
the opportunities and challenges faced by the rural
economy in Wales.
Conversation also focussed on how the UK Government can
work with the industry to combat the negative impact of
the coronavirus and work towards economic recovery,
while delivering a Brexit that works for Welsh farmers
and consumers.
The virtual event comes as the UK’s transformative
Agriculture Bill moves through the House of Lords
Committee stage in its journey to becoming law. The
Bill will ensure a smooth and gradual transition away
from the EU’s Common Agriculture Policy.
The UK Government has also recently launched its
‘bounce back’ plan of measures to support agriculture,
food and drink industries to recover from the
coronavirus. The package includes a programme of
physical and virtual events which have been tailored to
help a variety of businesses to get back into
international markets and start growing market share
once again.
UK Government Minister in Wales David TC Davies said:
While the Royal Welsh Show has moved to an online
platform this year, it is more important than ever to
listen to the voices of those from the agricultural
and farming sectors as we seek to rebuild our economy
following the coronavirus and maximise the potential
of leaving the EU.
The UK Government recognises the importance of the
rural economy to Wales’ prosperity and I look forward
to working closely together with representatives from
the sector to ensure the thoughts and opinions
discussed today are reflected in our decision-making
and future direction.
,
DEFRA Farming Minister said:
I am delighted to have been able to hear from
representatives of Welsh agriculture and farming
industries at this year’s virtual Royal Welsh Show,
which is truly a testament to the adaptability of
these sectors in the current challenging times.
We will always back farmers across all four corners
of the UK and we will make sure they can seize the
opportunities outside of the EU. This includes taking
advantage of the growing global demand for our great
British produce, such as for our world-famous Welsh
lamb.
