More support needed for rural markets - Bates

Release/Rhyddhau: 28/02/06

Contact/Cyswllt: Ceirion Rees:
029 2089 8342/ 07733280105/ ceirion.rees@wales.gov.uk 

The Labour Assembly Government must provide more support for street markets in rural Wales.  That was the view today from Montgomeryshire AM, Mick Bates.

His calls come following a question time discussion with Culture Minister Alun Pugh earlier today.

Commenting, Mick said:  "Street markets play a big role in rural towns.  As well as providing quality produce to local people, they give tourists a taste of our rural Welsh culture. 

"If you go to Welshpool market on any given day you will see people from all over the world looking for authentic Welsh products.  These markets are a major driver of rural economy.  In an age of mass production they also provide a refreshing change to the goods found on supermarket shelves.

"We need to preserve these markets so that they can be enjoyed for the generations yet to come. 

"The first step is recognising their importance.  The second step is the Government to provide support.   I am pleased that the Culture Minister did not rule out providing this support. I will continue to press him on this matter in the weeks and months that lie ahead."