Carmarthenshire farmer honoured with top agriculture award

Mr Evans, Vice Chair of NFU Cymru Carmarthenshire, was presented with the 2025 Farmers’ Union of Wales – United Counties Agriculture and Hunters Society Award at the FUW’s Eve of the Welsh Dairy Show Dinner in Carmarthen Market on Tuesday 28 October. The award, sponsored this year by NatWest Cymru, celebrates individuals who have made a significant impact on the agricultural sector.

From banking to farming

Starting his farming career from scratch 20 years ago, Mr Evans purchased his own farm and a small herd of cows after leaving a successful career in banking. Today he runs a 97‑hectare organic dairy farm split across two units — one housing the milking herd and the other dedicated to youngstock rearing.

Industry leadership and mentoring

Alongside running his farm, Mr Evans plays an active role in industry representation. He serves as chair of the Welsh Organic Forum and brings his financial expertise to discussions on resilience and policy. He is also a mentor with the Farming Connect Mentoring Scheme, offering practical guidance to farmers across Wales who are looking to diversify or strengthen their businesses.

Supporting the next generation

Mr Evans is a passionate advocate for agricultural education and public engagement. He regularly contributes to Carmarthenshire YFC’s My Food Plate event, introducing schoolchildren to sustainable food production and environmental stewardship. He has also completed the Fertiliser Advisers Certification and Training Scheme (FACTS) and now teaches at Gelli Aur Agricultural College, helping to train the next generation of agricultural professionals.

Praise from industry leaders

Sian Thomas, Chair of the United Counties Agriculture and Hunters Society, said:

“This award is a fitting and well‑deserved recognition of Haydn Evans’ long‑standing dedication and outstanding contribution to farming in Carmarthenshire and across Wales. He has shown unwavering commitment to supporting the next generation of Welsh farmers, ensuring they are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in an ever‑evolving industry.”

FUW President Ian Rickman added:

“Haydn Evans is a deserving winner of this award. Not only does this award recognise his success as a farmer, but also his tireless efforts to educate and inspire others within the agricultural community in Carmarthenshire and beyond.”

#carmarthen #carmarthenshire #dairyFarming #farmersUnionOfWales #farming #farmingConnectMentoringScheme #gelliAurAgriculturalCollege #myFoodPlate #organicFarming #unitedCountiesAgricultureAndHuntersSocietyAward #welshDairyShow #welshOrganicForum

Top award for founder of Gower View Foods

The annual award recognises individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the Welsh dairy industry. 

Established in 2007, under Jon Lewis’ leadership, Gower View Foods has grown into one of the UK’s most recognised independent butter and dairy co-packers, supplying leading brands for many of the major retailers and food service providers across the UK and Europe.

Based at a modern, purpose-built manufacturing facility in Cross Hands, Carmarthenshire, the company’s co-packing capabilities range from portion-sized butter and bulk block production to a wide range of flavoured butters, flavoured creams, and promotional packaging solutions.

In addition to its co-packing services, Gower View Foods also produces its own range of products, including the notable Shirgar Butter and Ísey Skyr, made using a traditional Icelandic recipe on its state-of-the-art Ultra Filtration plant.

Recognised as one of the 50 fastest-growing businesses in Wales in 2020, the company’s success has been driven by a flexible, collaborative approach and more than 30 years of collective experience in the dairy industry. 

Under Mr Lewis’s leadership, the company has created skilled jobs in West Wales and has made a substantial contribution to the local economy through sustained investment, product development, and rural employment. 

Sustainability is a cornerstone of operations, with ongoing investment in renewable energy generation, recyclable packaging, plastic reduction initiatives, and advanced effluent treatment systems, supporting both environmental objectives and long-term business resilience.

The award was presented to Mr Lewis at the Farmers’ Union of Wales’ annual Eve of the Welsh Dairy Show Dinner, sponsored by NatWest Cymru, held at Carmarthen Livestock Market on Monday, 27 October 2025.

Presenting the award, FUW President Ian Rickman said:

“Jon Lewis’s leadership has made a significant contribution to the Welsh dairy sector. Through his focus on innovation, sustainability, and job creation, he has demonstrated how strong business vision can deliver real benefits for both the industry and rural communities. His achievements with Gower View Foods are an excellent example of how Welsh dairy can compete and thrive on a national stage.”

Rhys Williams, Director, Commercial Banking at NatWest Swansea & West Wales said:

“Jon Lewis has shown how strong leadership and strategic investment can turn a local business into a national success story. 

“His achievements with Gower View Foods demonstrate how commercial success and community benefit can go hand in hand, creating skilled employment, supporting local supply chains, and contributing to the wider prosperity of rural Wales. 

“NatWest Cymru is proud to help celebrate such an inspiring example of sustainable business growth.”

#CrossHands #FarmersUnionOfWales #GowerViewFoods #Natwest #WelshDairyShow

“HM Treasury has slammed the door on the industry and thrown away the key” farming union tells Welsh Affairs Committee

On Wednesday this week (4 June), the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) presented evidence to the Welsh Affairs Committee on its inquiry into the challenges and opportunities of farming in Wales in 2025.

The FUW was represented by Gareth Parry, a longstanding FUW staff member, and the Union’s Head of Policy since 2024.

As part of the session, Mr Parry was questioned by MPs on a number of the ongoing challenges facing Welsh agriculture; including the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, the changes to agricultural and business property relief, and how changes to the UK Government’s funding for Welsh agriculture will impact the sustainability of the sector.

Speaking during the evidence session, Gareth Parry, FUW Head of Policy said:

“Brexit has presented us with a situation whereby UK Governments are moving away from the core policy principles of the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy, such as the supply of affordable food and the provision of fair incomes for farmers, and towards measures primarily designed to tackle the nature and climate crises.

“These crises are often being referred to as justification for this fundamental shift in agricultural policy and yet there remains no legislative mechanism to determine if – or when – the UK faces a food crisis. If it’s measured by the availability of food on supermarket shelves, it’ll be too late.”

The UK’s departure from the EU has also led to the loss of the intermediate-term stability provided by the EU’s seven year Multiannual Financial Framework. The lack of such replacement financial frameworks has allowed the UK Government to apply the Barnett Formula to any future adjustments to Welsh agricultural funding, meaning that Wales will receive subsequent uplifts based on a historical share of the UK population as opposed to rural needs.

“We have been absolutely clear since the referendum: if Governments provide economic sustainability to farming businesses, the cultural, societal and environmental contributions they make will naturally continue.

“However, what we are seeing is a clear appetite from the previous and current UK Governments to sign trade agreements rather than underpinning domestic food production through appropriately designed policies.”

Members of the Committee heard how the previous and current UK Governments have claimed to have protected the UK’s high food standards within their trade agreements. Yet, there has been little mention of the differences between food safety and food production standards.

“By opening the door to agricultural products from other countries where food is produced at a cheaper cost due to differences in production methods and regulatory requirements, is the UK Government undermining our domestic food producers? Yes, 100%.

“Crucially, after operating under favourable EU CAP principles for decades, the UK Government cannot ultimately pull the rug from beneath us by reforming agricultural policies and replacing domestic food production with imports, without seriously considering the economic viability of farming businesses.

“Both the UK and Welsh Governments must therefore empower the agricultural sector as a world leader in sustainable food production first and foremost, but to do so, both Governments must work collaboratively.”

Several questions during the session focused on the proposed inheritance tax reforms, with Mr Parry relaying the latest figures from Family Business UK and CBI Economics on the potential impacts for the UK economy.

“As highlighted earlier this week, the latest figures demonstrate the HM Treasury’s failure to consider the wider economic and social impacts of the proposed changes.

“It has been clear since the Budget announcement that HM Treasury Officials have had no intention of even acknowledging our concerns. They have slammed the door on the industry and thrown away the key.

“With the latest figures showing catastrophic impacts for UK family businesses and a fiscal loss of £1.9 billion for the Treasury over the next five years; with UK Government and HM Treasury Officials claiming that the policy reforms are fair, the question has to be asked; fair for who?

“We are not calling for the policy to be scrapped. Rather, we seek an opportunity to design a policy with the HM Treasury that works for genuine family businesses and closes the loopholes that currently exist.”

#FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #FUW #UKGovernment #WelshAffairsCommittee

FUW honours Carmarthenshire’s John Owen for lifetime of agricultural innovation

Carmarthenshire’s own John Owen has been named the winner of the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) External Award for Services to Agriculture, recognised for his decades-long contribution to Welsh farming at this year’s Royal Welsh Show.

With a career spanning education, research and practical innovation, John has helped shape agricultural policy and practice across Wales. From championing robotic milking at Gelli Aur College Farm to leading environmental pilot projects, his work has supported farmers with tools and insights to meet modern challenges.

Local roots, global impact

John’s journey began at Glynllifon Agricultural College, followed by a diploma at the Welsh Agricultural College, and a Phillip Henman Trust scholarship that took him to New Zealand and Australia to study international farm techniques.

After returning to Wales, he managed pedigree breeding projects for Welsh Black and Llyn sheep, before taking on the role of Farm Manager at Gelli Aur in 1993. Over the next 30 years, he helped establish the Farm Diversification and Technology Centre, and positioned Gelli Aur as a national testbed for innovation — working with the Dairy Development Centre, Hybu Cig Cymru, and farming research groups across Wales.

In 2004, John’s Nuffield Scholarship saw him revisit New Zealand to study development farms, contributing global expertise to local systems.

Champion of sustainable farming

His leadership extended to projects like Prosiect Slyri, aimed at reducing farm waste through slurry dewatering and purification, and the Tywydd Tywi weather network, which equipped farms with real-time soil and moisture data via mobile app.

Since retiring from Coleg Sir Gâr in 2023, John has continued his work as Lead Consultant for Agriculture and Environment with the LAFAN Consultancy Group, supporting rural capacity-building across South Wales.

Industry recognition

Presenting the award, FUW President Ian Rickman praised John’s “pioneering work” and “commitment to sustainable farming,” calling him a key figure whose legacy continues to benefit farmers across the country.

FUW Carmarthenshire County Chair Ann Davies MP added, “John is a true champion of Carmarthenshire agriculture. His work at Gelli Aur empowered farmers locally and nationally with the tools to thrive.”

John is a Treharne Nuffield Scholar, Fellow of the Royal Agricultural Societies, and a trustee of the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers. He previously received the United Counties Agriculture and Hunters Society Award in 2023.

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Senedd rejects call for final vote on farming support scheme

Senedd members have narrowly voted against a proposal to hold a final, binding vote on the Welsh Government’s controversial Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), despite widespread calls for greater scrutiny and democratic legitimacy.

The motion—tabled by Welsh Conservative MS Samuel Kurtz, shadow secretary for economy, energy and rural affairs—was defeated by 22 votes to 20 in the final session before the summer recess. It called for the Senedd to formally approve the scheme before its implementation in January 2026, citing concerns over transparency, trust, and the future of Welsh agriculture.

“A scheme of this scale, affecting over 80% of Wales’ land, must carry democratic legitimacy,” Kurtz told the chamber. “Let us vote. Let the elected members of this chamber, from every corner of Wales and from every party, have their say.”

Farming unions back scrutiny

The motion was backed by Plaid Cymru and supported by both NFU Cymru and the Farmers’ Union of Wales, who described the SFS as a “once-in-a-generation change” that demands full Senedd scrutiny.

NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said Welsh farming underpins a food sector worth £9.3 billion, employs nearly 50,000 people directly, and supports 230,000 jobs across the supply chain. He warned that the transition from the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) to the SFS could have significant economic consequences.

“For every £1 of public money invested through the BPS, £9 is returned to the Welsh economy,” Jones said. “The SFS must work for all farming sectors and areas of Wales and help ensure that Welsh farming can continue to underpin our rural communities, language and culture.”

FUW President Ian Rickman echoed those concerns, calling the scheme a “generational milestone” and urging ministers to ensure it is workable for family farms across Wales.

Welsh Government defends revised plans

Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies, who now leads on climate change and rural affairs, defended the scheme as the product of “extensive collaboration” following years of consultation and protest. He confirmed that Senedd members will have the opportunity to vote on regulations related to payment rates later this year.

“You can have your say then,” he said. “If you want to force more delay, if you want to force more uncertainty on the farming community, good luck to you—because they will not thank you.”

The revised scheme drops the previous requirement for 10% tree cover on every farm, a proposal that sparked mass protests and led to 5,500 pairs of wellies being placed on the steps of the Senedd last year. The Welsh Government now aims to plant 17,000 hectares by 2030, with enhanced payments for early adopters and flexibility on productive land.

Former rural affairs minister Lesley Griffiths said the scheme must deliver “public goods for public money,” including improved soil health, woodland management, and biodiversity outcomes.

Transparency and food security concerns

As previously reported by Swansea Bay News, the final version of the SFS was unveiled earlier this month amid calls for greater transparency and assurances around food security. Farming leaders warned that the scheme’s emphasis on environmental outcomes must not come at the expense of food production or economic viability.

The Welsh Government has argued that the SFS represents a “radical shift” away from the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy, tailored to Welsh needs. But critics say the scheme mirrors England’s Environmental Land Management model and risks placing “an inherent weakness at the heart of future policies.”

“We firmly believe that public goods are only a part of the picture,” said FUW President Glyn Roberts. “A more imaginative Welsh way forward should be forged.”

Plaid Cymru’s Llŷr Gruffydd has also warned that removing basic income support could push family farms “off a cliff without a safety net,” while uncertainty around trade, budget levels, and cheap imports continues to cloud the sector’s future.

Political tensions rise

The debate also exposed deepening divisions between the Welsh Government and farming unions. Labour MS Lee Waters accused some union leaders of amplifying grievance narratives and said the sector had been drawn into “culture wars.”

“I’ve stopped attending union meetings on farms,” Waters said. “The farming unions are the only groups I’ve come across who think effective engagement involves inviting a local representative to meet a group of men to be shouted at.”

Waters also warned that Brexit had left Wales with £1 billion less in funding, and that farming support must now compete with health and education within the Welsh budget.

“I’m not sure how people who voted for Wales to get less money now argue that we should spend even more on farming support. This is unserious.”

What’s next?

The Welsh Government says the SFS will be implemented in January 2026, replacing the BPS, which will be phased out by 2029. Farmers who do not join the SFS will see their BPS payments cut by 40% next year, prompting warnings of a “cliff-edge” for rural businesses.

Opposition parties say the lack of a full economic impact assessment and long-term funding clarity risks undermining confidence in the scheme. Kurtz described the current approach as a “blind leap of faith” and said trust between Labour and the agricultural sector is at an all-time low.

“Labour have simply rebranded a bad policy and hoped farmers wouldn’t notice,” he said. “By voting against our call for a binding Senedd vote, they’ve ignored an opportunity to rebuild trust.”

The next phase of the scheme will be subject to regulatory votes in the autumn, but calls for a broader debate on the future of Welsh farming are unlikely to fade.

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#AledJones #FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #farmingSubsidies #IanRickman #LeeWatersMS #LesleyGriffithsMS #LlŷrGruffyddMS #NFUCymru #SamuelKurtzMS #SFS #SustainableFarmingScheme #WelshConservatives #WelshGovernment

Welsh Government unveils final Sustainable Farming Scheme amid calls for transparency and food security

The Welsh Government has published the final version of its long-awaited Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS), marking what the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) describes as a “generational milestone” for Welsh agriculture. But while the scheme aims to reshape farm support from 2026 onwards, it has also sparked criticism from opposition parties and farming leaders over funding clarity, food production targets, and the absence of an updated economic impact assessment.

The SFS will replace the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), which has underpinned Welsh farm incomes for decades. Structured around Universal, Optional and Collaborative layers, the new scheme is designed to reward sustainable land management, biodiversity, and climate resilience, while offering flexibility for farmers to tailor their participation.

FUW: “A milestone, but not without concerns”

FUW President Ian Rickman welcomed the publication, noting that the union had invested over 300 hours of negotiations with Welsh Government officials in the past year alone. He said the scheme reflects years of lobbying and consultation since the initial Brexit and Our Land proposals in 2018.

Among the union’s key achievements are:

• A £238 million budget for the Universal Baseline Payment and BPS taper in 2026
• Retention of capped and redistributive payments to support typical Welsh family farms
• Reduction of Universal Actions from 17 to 12, with added flexibility
• Removal of the 10% tree cover rule, which had sparked widespread protests

However, Rickman acknowledged that the scheme is “not perfect.” He flagged concerns over the 10% habitat management requirement, the ambition to plant 17,000 hectares of trees by 2030, and the shorter BPS transition, which now falls to 60% in 2026, reducing by 20% annually thereafter.

“We urge all Welsh farmers to consider the Scheme requirements and payment rates in the context of your own businesses,” Rickman said. “Whether farmers decide to enter the SFS or continue with the tapering BPS, the FUW is here to support you throughout the transition.”

Welsh Conservatives: “Still in the dark”

The Welsh Conservatives have criticised the scheme’s rollout, arguing that farmers remain “in the dark” due to the lack of an updated economic impact assessment. Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs Samuel Kurtz MS said the absence of such analysis undermines the scheme’s credibility and leaves farmers unable to assess its real-world consequences.

“There are aspects of the scheme that can be cautiously welcomed,” Kurtz said, referencing the removal of the 10% tree planting requirement. “But a scheme-wide tree planting target remains, alongside a 10% habitat target, which could reduce food production in Wales.”

Kurtz also raised concerns about future funding, noting that the Universal tier budget is only matched to BPS for 2026, with no guarantees beyond that. He called for a Senedd vote to give the scheme democratic legitimacy and urged the Welsh Government to publish its impact assessment.

Darren Millar MS: “No mention of food security”

During First Minister’s Questions, Welsh Conservative Leader Darren Millar MS accused the Welsh Government of neglecting food security in its updated SFS document.

“The term ‘food security’ doesn’t appear once,” Millar said. “Yet the word ‘environment’ is mentioned 79 times, which tells you everything you need to know about Labour’s priorities.”

Millar warned that under Labour’s plans, Welsh farmers could be forced to sacrifice an area “half the size of the Vale of Glamorgan” to tree planting, while the UK Climate Change Committee recommends a 19% cut in livestock numbers — a proposal the Conservatives reject.

“For every £1 invested in farming, £9 is returned to the Welsh economy,” Millar added. “Yet Labour is freezing the £238m farming budget with no uplift, which is a real terms cut. Labour is sacrificing Welsh livelihoods and food security.”

Andrew RT Davies: “Where is the impact assessment?”

Former Welsh Conservative Leader and South Wales Central MS Andrew RT Davies, himself a farmer, echoed calls for transparency. He pointed to the previous impact assessment, which projected the loss of 5,000 farmers, 100,000 cattle, and nearly a million sheep under earlier SFS proposals.

“We need assurances there will not be devastating consequences from this revised scheme,” Davies said. “Yet Senedd ministers won’t publish an impact assessment. This obviously leads us to ask why.”

Welsh Government: “A whole farm, whole nation approach”

In its official statement, the Welsh Government described the SFS as a “whole farm, whole nation” approach to securing the future of food production while protecting the environment. Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies said the scheme reflects extensive collaboration and aims to support farmers in adapting to climate change, restoring nature, and maintaining rural heritage.

The scheme includes:

• A Universal layer with 12 required actions, including soil health, hedgerow management, and animal welfare
• A tree and hedgerow planting opportunity plan, replacing the 10% tree cover rule
• A 10% habitat management requirement, with flexible options
• A social value payment recognising farming’s wider benefits
• A £1,000 stability payment for farms up to 100ha

Applications will open via Rural Payments Wales from March to 15 May 2026, with the scheme officially launching on 1 January 2026.

What’s next?

While the FUW and other stakeholders have welcomed the scheme’s publication, calls for greater clarity, economic modelling, and long-term funding commitments continue to dominate the political debate. Farming unions have urged members to review the scheme carefully and provide feedback as technical guidelines are finalised.

The Welsh Government has committed to ongoing consultation and refinement, but pressure is mounting for it to publish the impact assessment and address concerns around food production, budget stability, and administrative burden.

Swansea Bay News will continue to follow developments as the Sustainable Farming Scheme moves toward implementation.

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Farming union say report on the impacts of inheritance tax reforms cannot be put any clearer

An independent report recently published by CBI Economics and commissioned by Family Business UK provides comprehensive estimates of the economic and fiscal impacts of the proposed Business Property Relief (BPR) and Agricultural Property Relief (APR) reforms for family businesses and farms across the United Kingdom.

The report analyses the findings from 4,147 family businesses and farms across the UK. It suggests that the reduction in business activity will lead to a loss in Gross Value Added (GVA) of £14.8 billion over the next five years.

This could lead to a potential loss of 208,500 full time jobs, and while the Exchequer expects to raise £1.8 billion in tax revenue by 2030 as a result of the reforms, the report estimates a net fiscal loss of £1.9 billion over the same period.

Responding to the publication, Gareth Parry FUW Head of Policy said:

“The findings from this comprehensive report are alarming, although not surprising for the Farmers’ Union of Wales. These figures demonstrate exactly what we, and many others, have been warning about since the Budget Statement last year.

“Specifically for the farming sector and its associated supply chains, the proposed APR reforms are predicted to result in 28,300 job losses, demonstrating yet again the HM Treasury’s failed attempts to justify its proposals based on simple economic calculations. The potential wider economic and social impacts are now clear to see.”

For both business turnover and investment, the agricultural and horticultural sector is expected to see the greatest declines. In Wales, the changes are expected to reduce GVA by £580 million, result in 9,715 job losses and reduce business turnover by 12.2%.

“Whilst our focus is clearly on the agricultural sector in Wales, this report highlights very clearly the possible financial impacts for family businesses across all UK sectors.

“We will certainly be referring the Welsh Affairs Committee to the findings of this report as they continue with their inquiry into the opportunities and challenges of farming in Wales on Wednesday.

“But with such clear and comprehensive analyses now available on the UK-wide impacts of these reforms for all family businesses, how long can the UK Treasury continue to ignore such findings before agreeing to work with all sectors to design a fair policy?”

#FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #FUW #UKGovernment

West Wales’ produce showcased in the heart of Westminster for ‘Carmarthenshire Day’

‘Carmarthenshire Day’ was held at the historic Westminster Hall, bringing together a wealth of parliamentarians, peers and producers in a vibrant showcase of rural Welsh excellence. 

As part of the celebrations, nine celebrated producers from across the length and breadth of Carmarthenshire were present including Bremenda Isaf, Tregroes Waffles, Brecon Carreg, Castell Howell, Coaltown Coffee, Mêl Gwenyn Gruffydd, Caws Cenarth, Carmarthen Ham and The Welsh Wool Shop. Each had the opportunity to engage with MPs, Lords and guests, offering a powerful insight into the diversity and quality of Carmarthenshire’s food, drink and craft sectors.

The event was officially opened by Dame Nia Griffith MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State in the UK Government’s Wales Office, herself the Member of Parliament for the Llanelli constituency in Carmarthenshire. 

The event drew a wide range of cross-party politicians and peers from across the UK, including Ruth Jones MP, Chair of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee, Alistair Carmichael MP, Chair of Westminster’s Environment, Food & Rural Affairs Committee and DEFRA Shadow Secretary of State, Victoria Atkins MP. The politicians were also joined by over 35 Farmers’ Union of Wales members and supporters from Carmarthenshire, who made the journey along the M4 to celebrate the special day.  

Commenting following the successful event, Ann Davies MP, who has served as Chair of the Farmers’ Union of Wales Carmarthenshire branch since 2023 said: “Carmarthenshire is a county built on hard work, innovation and community, it was a huge privilege to bring our producers to Westminster and to showcase what makes our part of Wales so special. This event was about more than products – it was about giving rural voices the platform they deserve and reminding Westminster of the value of regions like ours both economically and culturally.”

The celebration follows similar events previously hosted by the Farmers’ Union of Wales in Westminster, including Montgomeryshire Day in 2023. 

The Carmarthenshire Day celebrations were particularly timely for the Farmers’ Union of Wales too, as they celebrate seventy years since the agricultural union was founded in Carmarthenshire in December 1955.

Commenting, FUW President Ian Rickman said: “2025 marks an important year for the Farmers’ Union of Wales, as we celebrate seventy years since the Union was founded in Carmarthenshire.

“Working alongside Ann Davies MP, we were therefore delighted to support this successful event, bringing a taste of West Wales to the heart of Westminster.

“It was so heartening to see the event so well-attended by politicians and peers providing them not only with an opportunity to sample outstanding produce we boast in Wales, but also a valuable lobbying opportunity for FUW to highlight the range of challenges and changes facing Welsh farmers.” 

#AnnDaviesMP #Carmarthenshire #FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #FUW #NiaGriffithMP #Westminster

Farming union says safeguards must protect Welsh farmers in face of US trade deal

As part of the agreement, the US has gained broader access to the UK agricultural market, including a tariff-free quota for 13,000 tonnes of US beef and a tariff-free quota for ethanol.

The US anticipates a $5 billion increase in agricultural exports to the UK.

The UK Government has however stated that there will be no lowering of domestic food standards as part of the deal, and imports of hormone-treated beef and chlorinated chicken will remain illegal. 

The deal also provides reciprocal Beef Access for UK farmers – including a tariff-free quota of 13,000 metric tonnes for UK beef exports to the US, providing a potential new market for British farmers.

As transatlantic negotiations have continued over recent weeks, the FUW has intensely lobbied the UK Government to ensure Welsh agricultural interests are not sold down the river in pursuit of any short-term trade, particularly in competing with sub-standard imports from across the Atlantic.

Whilst the agreement enshrines imported food and agricultural goods must comply with the importing country’s sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) standards, the FUW has highlighted the divergence between food safety standards, and food production standards. Food produced to different standards could undermine Welsh farmers, as has already been the case in previous trade deals. 

Commenting, FUW President, Ian Rickman said:  “The Farmers’ Union of Wales has repeatedly stressed over recent weeks that Welsh agriculture must not become collateral damage in the UK Government’s pursuit of short-term trade concessions with the US, by forcing farmers into an unfair competition with cheaper, sub-standard US imports.

“We therefore recognise the UK Government’s assurance that this agreement will not compromise food, environmental or animal welfare standards.

“While reciprocal beef access presents distinct opportunities for farmers, an influx of US beef imports could however disrupt our domestic market and undermine Welsh farmers already grappling with unprecedented uncertainty

“Comprehensive and unambiguous country-of-origin labelling is therefore vital to ensure the UK public can make fully informed purchasing decisions. Furthermore, meticulous scrutiny and policing of imports must be non-negotiable. Any deviation in standards would constitute a betrayal of Welsh farmers, our food sector, as well as potentially undermining any future trading relationship with the EU.

“Over recent years, Welsh farmers have too often borne the brunt of trade deals forged with countries that prioritise different food production standards. These have undermined UK food production, whilst delivering little return in regard to new markets or tangible opportunities.

“As the dust settles over the coming weeks, we will continue to keep a close eye on developments.”

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Farmers urge dog walkers to keep pets on leads to avoid ‘devastating impact’ of livestock attacks

As the Easter holidays get underway, the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) is asking dog owners to act responsibly when out enjoying the countryside.

Its a message that’s been echoed by Swansea Council who have urged residents and visitors alike to follow the Countryside Code and make sure that if they’re taking their dogs on their walk on the hills around the city or on Gower that they keep them on leads anywhere near livestock.

Andrew Stevens, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Infrastructure, and a livestock farmer in Gorseinon, said most of the 400 miles of rural paths and bridleways in the Swansea area cross farmers’ fields and dogs running free off their leads was a continuing concern where livestock was present.

He said: “Working alongside our partners in the farming community and Gower, our countryside access team plays its part in supporting the network of rural footpaths that add to the charm and people’s enjoyment of this incredible place.

“But we want to urge visitors to follow the Countryside Code and keep their dogs on leads where there is livestock around. Gower and other rural areas of Swansea are home to many livestock farms and sheep in particular are at risk from dogs.”

Cllr Stevens added: “The farming community welcomes responsible dog owners, but many visitors are not aware that even if their dog doesn’t come into direct contact with a sheep, the distress caused by being chased by a dog can trigger a pregnant ewe to die or miscarry.

“No matter how in control of their pets they think they are, owners should always remain alert and dogs should always be on a lead around livestock.”

The Dogs Protection of Livestock Act (1953) makes it an offence to allow a dog to worry livestock and can be punished with a fine of up to £1,000.

However, over recent years the Farmers Union of Wales (FUW) has been lobbying to ensure the police have greater powers to deal with attacks on livestock, stressing the importance of strong enforcement in preventing attacks. 

Currently, the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Bill is making its way through Parliament. The Bill includes changes to what constitutes an offence, and increased powers for investigation of suspected offences.  

Commenting on the impact livestock worrying on farmers, FUW Regional Vice-President, Anwen Hughes said: “These attacks are not mere numbers; they inflict devastating trauma on livestock and further economic strain and stress on farmers. Beyond fatalities and severe injuries, the stress alone can trigger miscarriages in ewes, or lambs to become separated from their mothers. 

“This Easter, as we prepare to welcome visitors to enjoy our beautiful countryside, it’s crucial dog owners demonstrate diligence and responsibility when outside. Dog owners should never underestimate their dog, even the most friendly and well-trained dogs, have a natural instinct to chase and its vital that owners act responsibly when outside in the countryside. 

“There are no winners from livestock attacks. The trauma ripples through livestock, dog owners, and farmers, often leaving lasting emotional scars and a persistent fear of recurrence.”

The FUW also emphasised the importance of dog owners cleaning up after their dog. Dog waste can spread diseases to livestock, and it’s vital dog owners bring bags and dispose of dog feces properly in a bin and not just throw it away.

As part of their campaign to raise awareness of livestock worrying, the FUW has created signs for farmers and landowners encouraging dog owners to keep their dogs on a lead.

Ian Rickman, FUW President commented: “The FUW continues to lobby for greater police and legal powers to deal with dog attacks on livestock and the devastating impact they continue to have on Welsh farmers. Ultimately however, attacks on livestock are completely preventable through responsible dog ownership by the public.

“As farmers there are some precautions we can undertake to mitigate against the risk of dog attacks on our livestock. Steps such as displaying appropriate signage, clearly warning dog owners to keep their dogs on leads and under control, can be helpful in raising awareness and hopefully ensure the countryside can be enjoyed by everyone in a sustainable manner.”

(Lead image: Swansea Council)

#CllrAndrewStevens #countryside #Dogs #FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #FUW #Gower #livestock #sheep #sheepWorrying #Swansea #SwanseaCouncil #walking

Carmarthen MP shortlisted for agriculture award

The annual awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of women making a significant impact in the agricultural industry, with this year’s final set to be held in London in May.

Born and raised in rural Carmarthenshire, Ann’s agricultural journey began in 1992, with her and her husband starting as tenant farmers on a dairy farm near Llanarthne. Alongside her work on the farm, she went on to work as a peripatetic music teacher, and  lecturer in early years learning at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, before becoming the joint owner of a local children’s nursery alongside one of her three daughters.

Ann was elected as a County Councillor on Carmarthenshire County Council in 2017, and was appointed as a cabinet member of the Council in 2021 originally under the portfolio of Communities and Rural Affairs. 

As County Councillor, she became a prominent voice in local campaigns against the development of pylons routes in rural Carmarthenshire. In 2023, she was also appointed Chair of the Carmarthenshire branch of the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW).

She was elected Member of Parliament for the new Caerfyrddin constituency in 2024, and as one of four Plaid Cymru MPs in Westminster, has adopted a wide portfolio including; work and pensions, education, transport, and crucially, environment and rural affairs.

As Member of Parliament, Ann has spoken on a vast number of occasions at Westminster regarding the pressing issues facing the agricultural sector and rural communities, including the UK Government’s controversial changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR), the future of farming, and food security. 

Despite her Parliamentary duties, Ann continues to work on the farm – often out milking in her wellies – whilst her Sunday mornings are spent in chapel, before a Sunday lunch on the farm providing an opportunity to catch-up with her three daughters and many grandchildren.

Commenting on Ann Davies’ nomination, Farmers’ Union of Wales President, Ian Rickman said: “Everyone at the FUW is absolutely delighted with Ann Bremenda’s nomination for this prestigious award.

“For decades, as a farmer, County Councillor and hardworking FUW County Chair, Ann has been an unwavering champion for rural Wales. Since being elected Member of Parliament for Caerfyrddin last year, she has taken this understanding, enthusiasm and dedication towards our rural communities to the heart of Westminster, promoting a range of issues championing our countryside and the agricultural sector. 

“At a challenging time for Welsh farming, having a friend like Ann fighting our corner is invaluable, and we wish her well for the award ceremony.”

#AnnDaviesMP #Carmarthen #FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #FUW

Farming Union takes Inheritance Tax fight to the Senedd

The debate, tabled by Plaid Cymru, called on the the Welsh Government to make representations to the UK Government to reconsider and pause the family farm tax until they have conducted a thorough consultation and economic review of its impact on working farms.

Despite support from the Welsh Conservatives and Welsh Liberal Democrats, the debate itself saw the Plaid Cymru motion narrowly voted down. 

An amended motion supported by the Welsh Government was passed, which recognised the concerns expressed by Welsh farmers about changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR), and that Welsh Ministers would continue to advocate to the UK Government that the views of Welsh farmers be given full and proper consideration.

Ahead of the debate the FUW, the independent voice of Wales’ family farms, met with Welsh Conservatives rural affairs spokesperson, Peter Fox MS and Plaid Cymru’s Llyr Gruffydd MS, relaying the farming sectors’ concerns over the potential impact the Treasury’s reforms could have on family farms and domestic food production.

The Prime Minister had previously insisted a “vast majority” of farmers would not be affected by the changes, which are due to take effect from April 2026. Meanwhile UK Treasury’s figures have previously claimed it expects around 500 estates across the UK to be affected by the changes each year.

However, previous research by industry bodies has drawn significant doubts over the Treasury’s figures.

The FUW’s own analysis suggests as many as 48% of Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) recipients in Wales could be affected by the changes, with the union warning the changes could have devastating impact on family farms and food production, as well as leading towards an increase in agricultural land being transferred into the ownership of remote corporate bodies and companies.

The FUW has previously put forward a range of proposals to the proposed changes to better safeguard family farms and the UK’s food security. – a stance it reiterated to the UK Government on several occasions, including a meeting with UK Treasury officials in London in late February.

These proposed changes include the principle that farming/agricultural assets should not be taxed when passed from one generation to another for farming themselves or letting to another farming family. However, if a generation decides to sell those assets, those assets should be taxed at the point of selling.

Commenting following the debate, FUW President, Ian Rickman said: “Changes to APR have triggered significant anxiety within the farming sector in Wales during what is an incredibly difficult time for Welsh farmers, and the FUW has consistently called for the changes to be reviewed. 

“Considering the continued frustrations within the farming sector that were powerfully articulated during this debate, there was an opportunity here for the Senedd to send a clear, united message to Westminster that this ill-thought-out policy must be paused and reconsidered.

“Disappointingly, this opportunity fell short, however as pressure continues to mount from the sector and from the government’s own back benches, the UK Treasury must now do the right thing and revisit these proposals to better safeguard our family farms and the future of Welsh agriculture.”

(Lead image: Farmers Union of Wales)

#FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming #FUW #WelshGovernment

Dedicated Carmarthenshire woman recognised for outstanding contribution to farming

Joyce left school at age 16, wanting to work within the agricultural sector. She began as a receptionist for Dalgetty, going on to work at the Milk Marketing Board for two decades. She has since worked for the Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) as an Administrative Assistant in their office in Carmarthen for the past 23 years.

She began farming in a partnership with her husband Gerallt at Lletty Farm, Llannon, near Llanelli in 1990 – focusing on sheep and pigs. Starting with two sows from their father-in-law, going on to develop their own herd of Welsh and Landrace pigs. Their pork business started by supplying Pwllbach slaughterhouse in Llanelli, before going on to supply Rob Rattray butcher in Aberystwyth, and later the award winning Cwmcerrig Farm Shop near Gorslas, Carmarthenshire. 

Over the past three decades Joyce and Gerallt have excelled in showing their pigs at local and national agricultural shows – previously attending as many as 20 shows a year. In 1995, they won the prestigious Supreme Champion Pig at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show – repeating their success in 2016. They have also competed at the Winter Fair since the show’s inception in 1990 – winning a vast range of accolades including Champion Pair, Champion Single and Champion Carcass of the Show.

Joyce has had the honour of serving as a judge for the Welsh pig section at the Great Yorkshire Show in 2014 and at The Bath and West Show in 2017, as well as judging a range of pig competitions at YFC Rallies across Wales. 

In 2019, Joyce’s contribution to the pig sector was recognised with an Awards of Royal Agricultural Societies (ARAgS) award, as well as being appointed as an Assistance Honorary Director for the Pig and Goat section for the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show. She has since also taken on the role at the Winter Fair and become Chief Steward at the Spring Festival, with Joyce continuing to be a strong advocate for the pig sector and its future in Wales.

The award ceremony was held at the Farmers’ Union of Wales’ Carmarthenshire Christmas dinner at the Forest Arms, Brechfa, with FUW regional vice president, Anwen Hughes, and Sian Thomas, Chairman United Counties Agriculture and Hunters Society, presenting Joyce with the award.

Congratulating Joyce on her award, FUW Carmarthenshire chair, Ann Davies MP said:

“Joyce is a worthy winner of this award, and it rightly recognises her tireless work and dedication over the decades towards Carmarthenshire’s agricultural sector.

“In particular, her unwavering commitment and infectious enthusiasm towards the pig sector should be commended – and I know this has already been recognised on a Welsh and UK level through her many awards, achievements and judging roles. 

“As well as on the farmyard and in the show ring, she has dedicated her day-to-day career to support the agriculture sector. Be it with Dalgetty, the Milk Marketing Board, and now FUW, her hard work and support for farmers across Carmarthenshire cannot be understated, and I am delighted to see her efforts and dedication recognised through this award.”

[Lead image: Farmers Union of Wales]

#agriculture #FarmersUnionOfWales #Farming