Speaking from the Royal Welsh Show, Brynle Williams AM renewed the Welsh Conservatives’ longstanding commitment to supporting rural communities. Mr Williams, Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs, said:
“I believe that food produced here in Wales is the best in the world.
“We have the highest standards of quality and animal welfare, and more people should be able to enjoy the great taste of Welsh-grown food.
Mr Williams made the case for the public sector buying more local food by highlighting the example of Nottingham University Hospital Trust, which saved £6 million a year by sourcing its food locally:
“The myth that local food means dearer food has been shattered once and for all.
“All food served by the public sector in Wales should meet British standards of production.
“Best practice already sees some of the larger contracts broken up so that smaller producers can compete, but this should be the model for all of Wales.”
Mr Williams also highlighted the need to support young families with affordable housing:
“There is an urgent need to address the affordable housing shortage in rural towns and villages that is forcing the younger generation out.
“Key workers deserve to be recognised and supported in the planning system.
“Rural communities will only have a long-term future when they can grow naturally over time, so that young families aren’t forced out and small schools can stay open.
Mr Williams underlined the unique health challenges of rural Wales:
“It can be enormously difficult for people in rural communities to access health services that people in urban areas take for granted.
“Mobile health and screening services can have a life-changing impact for elderly and disabled people, and funding for them must be secure.”
