Contact/Cyswllt: Sian Cliff
02920 898342 / sian.cliff@wales.gov.uk

Mick Bates AM, Welsh Lib Dem spokesperson for Rural Affairs, today demanded more clarity and financial support from the Plaid-Labour Government as farmers in Wales continue to suffer following foot and mouth outbreaks:

“Over the last two weeks we have seen great confusion in the industry. Following the announcement by Hilary Benn in Parliament last week, I asked for a statement from our Minister on support for hill farmers in Wales. Since then there has been no statement and no clarity.

“Payments for agri-environment schemes are months in arrears. It has been brought to my attention that the Tir Cynnal payments, which were paid last year on September 6th, are still yet to be made.

“The Welsh agricultural industry is facing a crisis after the foot and mouth outbreaks. The Plaid-Labour Government is failing our Welsh farmers at this time of need with late payments and a lack of support.

“I have called on the Minister for Rural Affairs to make a statement confirming that Single Farm Payments will be made as soon as possible rather than waiting until December.

“We need to see more action now from the Minister to bring together environmentally friendly farming and support for upland hill farmers, with a full financial package to help farmers at this critical time.”



End / Diwedd