Attending the summer agricultural shows throughout my region and across Wales is always the highlight of the Senedd’s Summer Recess. From the Vale of Glamorgan Show to the Royal Welsh, it’s a brilliant opportunity for me to meet those directly affected by the Welsh Labour Government’s anti-rural agenda who, time after time, are hit by ill-thought-out policies.
The Sustainable Farming Scheme cannot go without mention. Just a week before the Royal Welsh Show, the Welsh Government officially launched the scheme. Whilst there have been changes, notably the disastrous 10% tree cover scheme rule has been removed, the 10% habitat scheme rule remains a concern for many, as well as the ‘cliff edge’ in funding during the transition to new schemes.
Yet, it’s not just the Sustainable Farming Scheme but also the Welsh Government’s bluetongue policy, which is being hit with restrictions and then slight U-turns. Welsh Conservatives and farmers across Wales have been urging for a vaccination drive to keep livestock movements across the border open, yet the Welsh Government has not listened.
As we also know, it’s not just our farming communities that are present at our shows across the summer, it’s also our brilliant charity and community organisations and our fantastic local businesses who purchase a stand at the show, hoping to gain much needed customers. Against the odds of the UK and Welsh Labour Governments, these small businesses continue to fight for their survival.
Increased national insurance means it’s more expensive for businesses and charities to employ people, with many companies having to let staff go or increase their prices. When our highstreets are already bare, with business after business closing their doors, it’s disappointing, but not surprising that the two Labour Governments can’t seem to make sense, listen to the impact their pet projects are having and focus on the steps to make our economy thrive with businesses, small and large, being supported along the way.
Agricultural shows highlight just how important rural life is and how much we need to protect it to secure our futures. As a Senedd Member, I will continue to champion and fight for our rural communities, because, as we know, No Farmers No Food.
ENDS
