Last week was the launch of the report I proposed to the Welsh Affairs Committee - the impact of trade and climate change policy on family farms in Wales.
The idea came out of the discussion at a July 2021 meeting I had with Glyn Roberts and other farmers from the FUW in his garden at Padog Farm in Ysbyty Ifan (see picture). I was struck by the family setting - the laundry, the toys and the fresh Welsh cakes!
I heard from them that as farmers they didn't think their voice was being heard in Westminster. His daughter Becca also spoke for a new generation of farmers and their fears for the sector.
That troubled me and I lobbied my committee colleagues for an inquiry. They agreed enthusiastically and the work began.
Over the course of several sessions our cross party committee heard evidence from academics, ministers, the farming unions and a roundtable of local farmers, here in Llanrwst (see picture).
I also met with farmers and the National Trust in Cwm Penmachno to hear first hand about the importance of preserving farmlands for farming (picture with Dafydd Gwyndaf at Llechwedd Hafod) .
The main recommendations are:
Mechanisms to prevent land being sold and developed for carbon based tree planting
Help for those who want to enter (and leave) farming
Recognising the unique contribution of Welsh family farms to the Welsh language as a "public good" deserving of support.
I visited with Aled and Eirian to thank them for their helpful comments on economics and community in Llanrwst and learn more about how they are looking ahead on their farms in Dyffryn Conwy.
The National Trust Wales have confirmed they are not looking to sell or forest farm land for carbon credits. This is very encouraging.
I will meet with Ministers now to press these points to help promote family farms and their role in preserving our language, lifestyles and our landscape.
You can read the report here:
