Speaking in a debate in the National Assembly for Wales this week (Wednesday 15th July), he called for cross-party cooperation to increase support for these industries which represent the backbone of the rural economy.
He said:
“The success of both the Welsh red meat and dairy industries are vital to the health of the whole Welsh economy.
“As we look forward to celebrating the best of Welsh agriculture at next week’s Royal Welsh Show, it is essential that the industry and all levels of Government act in a unified and collaborative way.
“Urgent action is needed to ensure that the red meat and dairy industries can weather current market pressures and create the conditions in which these industries can thrive and have a bright and sustainable future.”
At last year’s Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, Mr George launched the Welsh Conservatives’ Red Meat Charter. One year on, many of the proposals remain unfulfilled and there is a renewed call for urgent progress to be made to alleviate the pressure on the Welsh beef and lamb sectors.
Mr George added:
“More can, and should be done to support Wales’ red meat industry at this tough time.
“I would like to see reform of the meat promotional levy; a North Wales based beef and lamb abattoir; 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.
“The Welsh red meat industry is the best in the world and these are just some of the measures which would ensure the industry’s long-term sustainability, allowing it to flourish and grow.
“It is also essential that the recommendations of the Richardson review into the Dairy Industry are implemented without delay if we are to improve the sustainability and resilience of the Welsh dairy sector after such a prolonged period of market volatility.”