Last week (Monday December 14th), the Assembly Member for Montgomeryshire and Shadow Minister for Agriculture & Rural Affairs, Russell George AM, was joined by the Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew R.T. Davies AM, on a visit to Randall Parker Foods Ltd near Llanidloes.
They were given a tour of the plant to see first-hand the new fridges that have been recently installed which have allowed greater capacity for the exporting of prime welsh lamb and beef. They also met with Hybu Cig Cymru / Meat Promotion Wales, the body responsible for the development, promotion and marketing of Welsh red meat to learn about the strong partnership the company has forged with HCC to promote and market its produce.
Following the visit, Mr George said:
“Randall Parker Foods is a great example of a substantial business based in mid Wales which has invested a significant amount of money in their company to enable them to expand and deliver even more value back to prime Welsh livestock farmers.
“The business supplies a wide range of UK based retailers and wholesalers while also providing an international presence which is vital in securing the 160 plus jobs that the site supports.
“Both Andrew RT Davies and I were also pleased to be able to discuss Welsh Conservative plans to boost the red meat industry through our Red Meat Charter.
“International sales of Welsh lamb and beef are worth more than £200 million to the economy of Wales and it is vital that we protect this crucial industry for the prosperity of the whole of Wales.
“Welsh food and drink is known for its excellent quality and this needs to be recognised. In the first term of a Welsh Conservative Government, we would promote local produce by calling for a code of practice for supermarkets and shops to dedicate a section of floor space to the support and promotion of Welsh PGI status and British Red Tractor products and we would also seek to increase the percentage of public procurement of Welsh Meat.
“The fantastic quality of goods produced by our farming communities and food producers deserves to be supported and showcased as widely as possible. Welsh Conservatives would stand up for the farming industry and the rural communities around it.”