Brexit

UK agricultural exports are facing the prospect of crippling EU tariffs from the end of this year, with the Government said to be ‘close to abandoning hope’ of reaching a trade deal with the bloc.

Consumers expectations of sustainable British red meat will see the sector face increased scrutiny in the future, industry has said.

Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford has said the UK Government’s internal market proposals are a ‘significant step backwards’ for devolution.

Support for British farmers has soared to a record high as a result of their efforts to keep the nation fed during the coronavirus pandemic, a new survey has revealed.

Confidence must be restored in Welsh Government’s ability to support rural communities in the post-EU era after it incurred fines for mishandling funds, says Llyr Gruffydd, North Wales MS and Plaid Cymru Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs.

The Government’s decision to set up a Trade Commission should have cooled down the debate on food standards, but instead it has heated it up, says Tim Lang, professor of food policy at City, University of London and author of Feeding Britain.

Farmers should not worry about Brexit, but the coronavirus, which could kill off many small agricultural shows and sever the rural community’s links with wider society, says Dave Herbert, a South Welsh smallholder producing eggs and poultry.

As the UK prepares to sign trade deals with several countries, including the USA, concerns have grown that the food service sector may move to take advantage of low standard imports in future. Abi Kay reports.  

The independence of the new Trade and Agriculture Commission has been questioned as Farmers Guardian revealed its press operation will be carried out by officials at the Department for International Trade (DIT).

Scottish and UK Ministers have locked horns in a bitter battle over the future protection of food standards.