Plaid Cymru acknowledges vital role of farming

In its election manifesto, launched by party leader and Deputy First Minister in the Welsh Assembly Ieuan Wyn Jones, the party warns the industry has some ‘difficult challenges’ ahead, not least increasing production to satisfy growing global demand for food, while reducing its environmental footprint.

It says with the likelihood of traditional European subsidies changing, agriculture will need to become more market driven and profitable. The Welsh Assembly is working closely with the industry to achieve this, and by doing so, to increase the prosperity of family farms across Wales.

The manifesto adds: “Welsh agriculture also needs a strong Plaid Cymru voice in Westminster to promote the interests of Wales, for instance, to reaffirm our commitment to keeping Wales GM-free.

“We also need to ensure Wales’ interests must be at the heart of the UK’s negotiations with other EU member states when the CAP is reviewed in 2013.”

It says the new supermarket ombudsman, which Plaid has long called for, must have the teeth it needs so Welsh producers get a fair deal. There should also be changes to UK food labelling legislation so consumers have clear information on ‘place of farming’. Investment in community-based farming would produce more locally-grown food, it adds.

The party will also oppose a UK Treasury livestock tax being imposed on Welsh farmers.

It says Wales must take full advantage of its renewable energy resources and the party will support micro generation schemes, including tidal, wave-power, on-shore and offshore wind, hydro and biomass.

It also promises to prioritise access to broadband, aimed at providing super-fast broadband to companies and homes, and to campaign for compulsory mobile network sharing, giving people across Wales improved mobile coverage.

It will also set up a special venture capital fund to give Welsh businesses the funds to develop new idea, expand and create sustainable jobs.

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