Today is Back British Farming Day, which is an opportunity to showcase British produce and encourage people to support our farmers by buying British.
This morning I had the pleasure of meeting farmers and the NFU at a major event in Westminster to promote Britain’s farming industry, where I pledged my support to West Wales’ farmers. This event was particularly important given that farms across Pembrokeshire are currently facing a number of serious challenges. With the added uncertainty of the vote to leave the EU and the implications this has for future UK agricultural policy, it is vital that we do all we can to help farmers.
Although the vote to leave the EU does mean uncertainty, I know that a number of farmers, particularly in Pembrokeshire, did vote for Brexit. I am therefore keen to understand how local farmers want to see the industry evolve following the referendum, and I will be working with them in the weeks and months ahead to see what more we can do at both a local and national level to alleviate the pressures on their businesses.
I am particularly concerned about the current state of the dairy industry, and a number of dairy farmers in Pembrokeshire have got in touch over the last few months to let me know that they are struggling. This is clearly not acceptable. I intend to build on my long track record of campaigning in this area and champion Pembrokeshire’s dairy industry. As well as asking the Government what more they can do to help our dairy farmers, I’ll also be looking at potential exporting opportunities.