James Evans MS has criticised the Welsh Government’s decision not to align with England’s bluetongue strategy, warning that the approach could create disruption and disadvantage for Welsh farmers, particularly those operating near the border.
Earlier this month, James had called on the Welsh Government to follow Defra’s lead in managing the bluetongue outbreak, warning that divergent movement rules would strain auction marts, disrupt supply chains, and impose extra costs on veterinary professionals and livestock keepers.
Today’s announcement confirms that Wales will not align with the England-wide restricted zone set to come into effect on 1st July. Instead, livestock moving into Wales from England’s restricted zone will still require negative pre-movement testing, a move that James believes will hold Welsh farmers back.
James Evans MS said:
“This is exactly the scenario I warned about, a two-tier farming system where Welsh farmers face more restrictions, more costs and more red tape than their counterparts across the border.
“Many of my constituents rely on cross-border livestock movements, especially to markets like Hereford. The Welsh Government’s decision not to align with England will now cause unnecessary disruption at the very worst time.
“Of course we need to protect against disease, but English farmers are doing that too. Vaccinations are key but, in the meantime, we should have a joined-up UK approach to tackling bluetongue, not a policy that puts Welsh producers at a competitive disadvantage. This is a setback for common sense and for the rural economy.
“Welsh Government’s decision today will impact our Shows, none more so than the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, because of different regulations each side of the border. The RWAS has already announced an exclusion of cattle, sheep and goats from England, resulting in a significant drop in entrants this year and potentially a major economic hit to the Show itself. Welsh Government’s statement today means this decision to exclude entrants will remain in place.”
