“Farmers in Wales are already paying a high price for global inaction on climate change. 

The delay to the Sustainable Farming Scheme is frustrating and means delaying urgent action on nature recovery and achieving net zero.  

This new involvement phase of the SFS, announced by Welsh Government, must move at pace – and the interests of future generations must be central. 

The social value our farmers provide to our communities is vital. Many farmers are already showing us what a sustainable farming future can look like. More support will play a huge role in addressing challenges beyond the farm gate, from the health of our rivers, to the need for more green jobs and the food insecurity our children are facing. 

The Trussell Trust has this week revealed that demand for food banks in Wales is at an all-time high.  

We have to connect the dots from support to farmers, protecting nature, investing in food and fisheries, to ensuring people can put healthy food on the table – at home, and in our schools and hospitals. 

This is why I’m urging Welsh Government to enact a joined-up, long -term, food strategy for Wales – one that improves lives for people in the countryside, on the coast and in our cities. 

If we want clean rivers, healthier diets, affordable food, zero waste and a low carbon economy that benefits everyone, we urgently need a vision for food in Wales, now.” 

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