THE largest ever demonstration over a proposed overhaul of farming subsidies was held outside the Welsh parliament today.

Thousands of people objecting to the Welsh Labour government’s proposals to require more land to be set aside for environmental schemes descended to the Senedd.

Farming leaders say the sustainable farming scheme (SFS) will result in 5,500 job losses.

The SFS, which is currently under consultation, would require 10 per cent of a farmer’s land to be covered in trees in exchange for future funding.

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth said that the government should pause introducing the scheme and reflect on the arguments that have been made during the consultation.

Welsh Conservatives leader Andrew RT Davies said that the SFS will have a “devastating impact” on our farming communities.

A Welsh government spokesperson said: “Farming is very important to Wales and our economy and we want a successful future for Welsh farming.”