Impacts of trade and environmental policy on family farms in Wales to be explored by MPs
23 July 2021
The Welsh Affairs Committee has today launched a short inquiry which seeks to explore how major policy changes could affect family farms in Wales.
- Inquiry: The economic and cultural impacts of trade and environmental policy on family farms in Wales
- Welsh Affairs Committee
The policy changes being considered include – but are not limited to – UK Government policy on international trade and free trade agreements, and legislation around climate change. The Committee will explore how these policy areas are likely to impact societal connections and traditions in farming communities, and look at what can be done to support communities, their culture and heritage.
As part of this short inquiry, the Committee is focusing on ‘family farms’ (small and medium sized farms, for example hill farmers) rather than large, industrial size farms.
Rt Hon Stephen Crabb MP, Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee, said:
“International trade agreements and an ever-ambitious environment agenda have dominated much of UK Government policy over the last few months and years. However, it is crucial that we understand the impact they are having on ordinary people and communities who are just trying to make a living. We must make sure everyone benefits from these policy advances, and by looking at the impact on family farms, we hope to shine a light on how communities can prosper for generations and how their livelihoods can be safeguarded.”
Terms of reference
The Committee is inviting written evidence responding to the following questions. The deadline for submissions is Friday 24 September.
- How unique are family farms and how significant is their contribution to Wales’ cultural life?
- What are the main challenges facing family farms specifically, and farming communities more generally, in Wales?
- What are the potential implications of free trade agreements for farmers in Wales?
- How, if at all, is the UK Government’s climate change policy agenda impacting on family farms, including the future generations of farmers, and rural communities in Wales?
- What practical steps can the UK Government take to support these communities and how should the UK and Welsh governments work together to support these communities unique culture, including their contribution to the Welsh language, and heritage?
Further information
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