The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has written to the Secretary of State for Wales, the Rt. Hon. Simon Hart MP, to seek clarity on what protections are under consideration to safeguard local farmers during any trade deal negotiation.
Commenting on her letter, Janet said:
“Farmers and producers across Aberconwy, as well as Wales more broadly, are deeply concerned that they may be undercut through unfair competition, brought about by a liberalising of UK market access for competitive producers from the global stage.
“I believe wholeheartedly in the opportunity that Brexit provides, particularly in seeking new trade opportunities for UK agriculture. However, I am clear that every possible step should now be taken to ensure that trade deals are to the benefit of Welsh farmers.
“With a welcome commitment from the UK Government to include protections for the agricultural industry in such trade deals, I have now written to the Secretary of State for Wales to seek clarity on what protections are under consideration.
“Whilst this moment provides the scope to strengthen the export of Welsh meat globally, especially lamb if shelf life is improved, we must also ensure the domestic market continues to provide for our land custodians so that they may sustainably grow their businesses.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
- Please find a letter to the Secretary of State for Wales attached.