Welsh farming deemed unviable without public support

Politicians have been warned that secure public funding for agri-environment schemes is essential for the viability of Welsh agriculture.
In its manifesto for Welsh Assembly elections on 3 May, the Country Land and Business Association says that market returns alone cannot keep farming going.
“The concern is that UK agriculture is basically not viable without public support,” Wales CLA director Julian Salmon claimed at the manifesto launch.
The Welsh Assembly government was not taking a long-term view in its current review of agri-environment schemes. There was the threat of further farming bankruptcies unless adequate environmental management funding was provided.
The manifesto calls on the assembly to ensure that EU policy changes do not discriminate against Wales and the UK. There must be equality and fair competition throughout Europe.
As farming alone could no longer support rural communities, the assembly must adopt a pro-active approach to local development, integrated planning, housing and transport policies and foster a modern infrastructure to secure an economically vibrant rural economy, says the CLA.
The association also wants incentives for landowners who get involved in the production of renewable energy, heat and power, and to encourage the use of locally-produced food.
The CLA insists that fees and rules on business and food standards must be framed in a way that small businesses can bear and let them compete on equal terms.
The assembly must also recognise that consistent support is required if private woodland owners are to deliver desired public benefits. Demands for public access must be in response to identified needs and be properly funded.
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