Member of the Senedd for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has expressed concern that the Welsh Government’s response to the outbreak of Bluetongue in livestock, will cause chaos in Wales.
Bluetongue is spread by midges and effects livestock, including sheep and cattle. It can kill animals but causes no threat to human health.
New Welsh Labour Government restrictions will restrict all livestock from coming into Wales from England, making it difficult for normal trade to take place.
The Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, which is recognised as one of the most significant agricultural shows in Europe, is facing a significant cut in livestock this year with no livestock from England and Scotland being allowed entry.
Mr Fox is concerned about the impact of the restrictions on farmers in Monmouthshire, following on from the devastating family farm tax proposed by the UK Labour Government last year.
Local MS for Monmouth, Peter Fox, has said:
“These new regulations will cause huge financial problems for farmers, but they will not keep Bluetongue out of Wales. We should align with England’s restricted zone policy with increased vaccinations to avoid unnecessarily harming the farming community further
“I am disappointed that once again, Welsh Labour are abandoning our farmers, we need to support farmers in Monmouthshire.
“Across Wales, farming is a cornerstone of our rural life, landscape and culture, yet week after week, this community continues to be hit with bad news, restrictions and new financial costs.
“It is becoming clear that Labour are no friend of our rural communities, especially in Wales where these restrictions will affect farmers the most.
“I have already heard from constituents and farmers about the impact these restrictions will have, and the consequences have already been seen at the Monmouthshire Livestock Centre this past week.
I, and the Welsh Conservatives will always be a voice for Welsh Farming. Only we have a plan to Fix Wales, and we will stand up and protect our rural communities.”
