PLAID Cymru urged Labour today to reset the government’s relationship with farmers in Wales and reverse the Tories’ cuts to the rural affairs budget.

On the first day of the Royal Welsh Show, Plaid Cymru agriculture spokespersons Llyr Gruffydd and Ann Davies highlighted the vital role that Welsh farmers play in preserving the nation’s language and culture, with the industry being the “backbone of rural Wales.”

They said in a joint statement: “Our rural economy and culture are nothing without Welsh farmers, yet governments in both Cardiff and London have ignored this fact for too long.

“The previous Conservative UK government’s promise of ‘not a penny less’ was broken, resulting in a £243 million shortfall that severely impacts our rural communities.

“Additionally, new trade agreements with Australia and New Zealand threaten our high-standard domestic producers by introducing unfair competition from cheaper, lower-standard imports.”

The pair said that Welsh Labour “have been out of touch with the concerns of farmers,” but added: “Following the general election, Labour in Westminster now have an opportunity to reset the relationship with farmers.”

Speaking ahead of the 120th Royal Welsh Show, Climate Change and Rural Affairs Secretary Huw Irranca-Davies said Welsh Labour is “here to listen and learn” and will be chairing a meeting at the event to discuss concerns.

“We want to continue to develop the partnership approach needed to finalise the design and implementation of the [Sustainable Farming Scheme],” he said.

“Providing certainty and stability about future support is something I know is at the top of most farmers’ agendas.”