FUW raises key concerns at Farming Roundtable in Westminster
The President of the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) attended a Shadow Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Farming Roundtable on Monday 7th September, chaired by the Rt Hon Victoria Atkins MP, Shadow Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, alongside representatives from across the UK agricultural industry.
Discussions focused on the significant pressures facing farmers following the prolonged period of dry weather and the ongoing implications for agriculture, including impacts on winter feed stores, crop growth and livestock welfare.
The growing threat posed by wildfires was also discussed at length, alongside the problems caused by reduced livestock numbers and under grazing, with the FUW making the case for a coordinated, UK-wide strategy to prepare for challenges that will inevitably arise in future years.
The roundtable also considered the importance of maintaining strong biosecurity at the UK's borders and ensuring that the country is better prepared to respond to future disease outbreaks.
Speaking after the discussion, FUW President Ian Rickman said: “It was valuable to have the opportunity to bring the concerns of Welsh farmers directly into discussions in Westminster and to engage with other industry stakeholders on the challenges facing UK agriculture.
“The events of this summer have demonstrated just how exposed our farming and food systems can be to extreme weather, disease and disruption. We need to see food production and food security recognised as strategic priorities, with the Government working in collaboration with farmers to build resilience.
“We also need meaningful support to tackle threats such as bluetongue and a robust approach to biosecurity. We took the opportunity to highlight the need for Government support to help the industry manage and tackle disease outbreaks, protecting both animal health and the viability of affected farming businesses.”
The FUW welcomed the opportunity for continued engagement with members of the Shadow DEFRA Team and industry stakeholders on the issues that will shape the future resilience and sustainability of Welsh and UK agriculture.
