The views of Brecon and Radnorshire farmers were raised in Parliament twice in twenty four hours this week.
On Brecon and Radnorshire Fay Jones MP led a debate in the House of Commons on the importance of maintaining both food production and environmental delivery. She was speaking in her capacity as the Minster for Wales, working in concert with counterparts on Defra. It is one of the few times that a Welsh MP has led a debate on a topic devolved on the Welsh Parliament in Wales.
Speaking from the Despatch Box, Ms Jones outlined changes recently announced by the UK Conservative government to schemes on offer in England in comparison to deep concern at proposals in Wales. She underlined the difference between the flexible menu of options facing farmers in England in contrast to the rigid approach adopted by the Welsh Labour Government in its Sustainable Farming Scheme.
Ms Jones told MPs in the House of Commons chamber that the scheme was 'nothing short of unworkable'. She followed with a further debate on Tuesday in Westminster Hall where she urged Plaid Cymru to withdraw its support for the Welsh Labour Government's 'cooperation agreement'.
Speaking after the debate, Fay said:
"I was delighted to open the debate on behalf of the Government and speak on behalf of the many thousands of farmers I represent. My constituency of Brecon and Radnorshire is home to proud beed, sheep and poultry farmers - 365 days a year, they produce world-class food which is good for our health, good for our economy and good for our environment.
It is vital that MPs in Westminster hear the concerns of Welsh Farmers. Whether NVZs, bovine TB or the Sustainable Farming Scheme - these are all examples of ill-thought-out policies from a Government determined to set their face against farming in Wales.
In contrast, the record of the UK Conservative Government is clear. This Government will always support and be proud of British Farming. I will continue to use my role in Westminster to speak for farmers who feel as though the Welsh Labour Government is listening to them."