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Mick Bates

Press Releases 2006

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Farmers livelihoods are being put at risk while the government invents mythical European rules – says Mick Bates.

Following the publication of the draft budget, Mr Bates, environment spokesperson for the Welsh Lib Dems, accused the government of being “less than honest” over cuts in the Tir Mynydd grant scheme.

Mr Bates said: “In her budget letter, Sue Essex says that the European Court of Auditors recommends the cessation of the Tir Mynydd Scheme. That claim is less than honest, to say the least. No-where in the European Court of Auditors report, ‘Rural Development Investments: Do they effectively address the problems of rural areas?’ does it say the scheme must close.

“Labour’s plans will slash a third of farmers payments this year, and 40% next year. This action – inspired by Labour’s hostility to all things rural – threatens the already precarious existence of thousands of hill farmers.”