On Wednesday (22nd July), Russell George, who is also Shadow Minister for Agriculture & Rural Affairs in the National Assembly, published Welsh Conservative proposals to support rural communities across Wales.
Mr George said:
"I have announced that a future Welsh Conservative Government would ensure a minister dedicated to Mid Wales is sat round the cabinet table, prioritising the issues which matter to the people of Mid Wales, listening to the region and speaking up for it.
"The people of mid Wales feel let down by present and past Welsh Governments, and this needs to change."
This commitment forms a leading part of ‘Standing Up For Rural Wales’, a Welsh Conservative policy document which highlights just some of the party’s new plans to support Welsh rural communities.
Among other plans introduced at the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, the Welsh Conservatives have called for a fully independent system of ‘rural proofing’; a red meat charter; and support for Young Farmers.
Mr George added:
"As it stands, the Welsh Government assesses the impact of its own policies on rural areas of Wales. We would reform this process and give rural proofing duties to representatives from rural communities across Wales, who are far better placed to scrutinise the effects of policy on their local environments.
"The success of the Welsh red meat industry is also vital to the health of the whole Welsh economy. I would like to see a Charter for Red Meat put in place which would include reform of the meat promotional levy; a code of practice for retailers to prominently promote Welsh lamb and beef; and a concerted effort to boost the quantity of public procurement for Welsh produce.
"Our Young Farmers also need to be supported and I am committed to safeguarding funding for Young Farmers Clubs, protecting the future of communities across rural Wales. This organisation is a great stepping stone for many young people to get into farming and an opportunity to learn and develop important skills, gain invaluable training and participate in their local communities."