Nick Allen delivers some stark home truths to Welsh Senedd committee
On Wednesday at the Welsh Senedd Economy Trade and Rural Affairs (ETRA) Committee meeting this week, Nick Allen, CEO of the British Meat Processors Association delivered some stark warnings about the future of the red meat industry in Wales.
As part of the inquiry into the effect of declining livestock numbers on the value chain, Mr. Allen highlighted the deep concerns held by BMPA members operating in Wales. He told the committee: “We’re managing a decline. I see the schemes being introduced supposedly helping farmers with their production systems, but they are totally contrary to what you ought to be doing in Wales" adding “This is all going the wrong direction."
We're pleased to say that the evidence put forward by Nick Allen immediately prompted the Welsh government to organise further meetings this week and next to carry on the discussion and understand the industry's issues including the unfolding crisis that Welsh bluetongue restrictions are precipitating. We'll report back on how those discussions progress.
You can read our latest article on why BMPA is strongly urging the Welsh Government to rethink its policy or face the prospect of a severe hit to the Welsh meat and livestock sector and its economy.