Prince warns of town/country divide

25 July 2000



Prince warns of town/country divide

THERE is a growing divide between town and country the Prince of Wales has warned in a speech at the Royal Welsh Show.

Many of his audience saw this as an indirect reference to government plans to allow a vote on a hunting ban and problems with right-to-roam legislation, reports The Times.

The Prince said this divide was adding to the plight of producers going through desperately difficult times.

In a speech which was cheered by farmers, the Prince criticised red tape which threatened to stifle the enterprise of the farmer with the courage to diversify.

The Prince closed his speech with an emotional plea.

I pray with all my heart that the future may be brighter and above all, that the farming community and all it stands for is supported, protected and cherished.

Bob Parry, leader of the Farmers Union of Wales, said it was obvious the Princes remarks on a divide alluded to hunting.

• Right Royal row over GM crops, FWi, 06 June 2000
• Charles wins organic admirers, FWi, 02 July 1999
• Prince Charles visits crisis-hit hill farmers, FWi, 21 October 1998