Local produce must become a priority for government

The Welsh Liberal Democrats' call to action to the Government to increase the amount of local food used in their canteens has been echoed by farming Union NFU Cymru.

NFU Cymru President Dai Davies said, "The favourite phrases and themes we have heard from Cardiff Bay of late are local sourcing, sustainability, environment, fair trade and partnership. Now is a perfect time to put these into practice. Fair Trade applies just as much to farmers in Wales as in any other country.

"The figures uncovered by the Welsh Liberal Democrats are quite frankly astounding. To say that it is a disappointment to learn that only 22% of the estimated £66m spent by the Assembly Government on food and drink in 2005 went to Welsh producers is an understatement."

"2007 has been a bad year for Welsh livestock farmers and market prices for lamb are lower than 20 years ago. Welsh produce is of the highest standard in the world and it is about time the Welsh Assembly Government recognised this by taking decisive action to source local produce, support local farmers and deliver for Wales.

"It is high time the Assembly practised what they preach. The Assembly is in Wales and is working for Wales, and it is time it backed Welsh produce in its quantity and quality. The St Athan air base in the Vale of Glamorgan will soon be opening, containing the biggest restaurant in the country, and we have repeatedly called on the Assembly Government to ensure that this landmark project sources as much Welsh produce as possible. I sincerely hope they do not miss this valuable opportunity.

"I am tired of seeing countries like Ireland and France proudly championing their country's produce in their public venues, whilst the same cannot be said for Wales. If these countries can do it, why can't the Welsh Assembly also ensure that Wales showcases and uses the top quality produce we have here?"