Oral Answers to Questions

Caroline Nokes Excerpts

Wednesday 13th July 2016 Commons Chamber

[Glyn Davies (Montgomeryshire) (Con)]

7. What recent assessment he has made of the contribution of the farming sector to the economy in Wales.

[Caroline Nokes (Romsey and Southampton North) (Con)]

11. What recent assessment he has made of the contribution of the farming sector to the economy in Wales.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Guto Bebb)]

The farming sector is the economic backbone of the Welsh rural economy. The total income from farming in Wales is estimated at more than £175 million, but more important is the contribution that Welsh agriculture makes to our rural communities. It is crucial and this Government will continue to support it. [Interruption.]

--- Later in debate ---

[Guto Bebb]

I agree completely with my hon. Friend that any delays in payments to the farming community are problematic. This issue is devolved to the Welsh Government and it is one I have already discussed with farming unions. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will be at the Royal Welsh next week, subject to the decisions of the next Prime Minister, and meetings have been arranged with farming unions at that event, which is undoubtedly the premier farming event of the whole United Kingdom.

[Caroline Nokes]

Welsh, and indeed British, farmers are responsible for producing some of the finest food in the world. Now that we are to leave the EU, what effort is my hon. Friend making to make sure that the Department ensures that all of the UK’s fantastic home-grown produce is promoted to international markets?