NFU Cymru meets UK farming leaders

The introduction of the Government of Wales bill next May will completely transform the way in which the National Assembly for Wales functions was the prediction of Glyn Davies AM, Chairman of the Assembly’s Environment Planning and Countryside Committee at a gathering of UK farming leaders in Pembrokeshire this week.

Glyn Davies who was speaking at a dinner organized by NFU Cymru and at which representatives from the NFU, Scottish NFU and Ulster Farmers’ Union were present said, “The Welsh Assembly responds and is accessible to the public. Issues to do with farming and the wider rural community figure high on the political agenda. The fact that NFU Cymru has a dedicated Assembly advisor to keep Assembly members abreast of issues and concerns certainly helps to maintain the profile on rural issues.”

Mr Davies continued, “I envisage however that there will be a significant change in the way that the EPC will undertake its business after next spring. For one thing, at present the Minister who sits on the EPC committee can be questioned on his responsibilities but once the new bill comes into force Ministers will no longer be on select committees and thus not subject to the same level of scrutiny .Unless the size of the Assembly is increased neither would committees have the time since they would have to examine in detail both primary and sub-ordinate legislation Concluding his address, Mr Davies said that the devolution of powers to the Welsh Assembly had generally benefited Welsh Agriculture.

Also speaking at the meeting NFU Cymru President, Dai Davies, said, “The negotiating power of the Celtic fringe has been strengthened by devolution, and Westminster now has to take greater note of the views and opinions of the devolved administrations.

“Working closely and sharing experiences with Scotland, Northern Ireland and England produces mutual benefits - especially in terms of the interpretation of Regulations by the various departments.

“However, the fact remains that the UK has only one Minister negotiating on the key decisions in Brussels and it is imperative that Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland continue to have influence at Westminster and at European level.”