It is positive to see that at least some steps are already being considered from the Rural Affairs Minister’s announcement (27 Feb) with regards to the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS).

The FUW have made the feeling of its members abundantly clear during the meeting with the Welsh Government (19 February). At that meeting the FUW called for a rethink of the current SFS proposals and for closer collaboration of the changes needed on the scheme in conjunction with interested parties and both farming unions.

The lack of consideration of tenant farmers and proper support for new entrants were just some of the key concerns expressed by the Presidential Policy Team of the Farmers’ Union of Wales during a meeting held recently at Builth Wells.

This was the final formal meeting held by the FUW to discuss the initial feedback received from over 1,500 farmers at local county meetings across Wales in recent weeks. It will be used to formulate the Union’s final response to the Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) consultation.

Welsh Sheep exports rise in 2023

New HMRC data shows that sheep exports have continued to rise in 2023. The total volume of sheep meat exported from Wales is estimated to have reached almost 30,500 tonnes, 12% up on the year, while total value hit £190.9 million, 10% up on the year.

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