LABOUR Assembly spokesperson for rural affairs JOYCE WATSON AM has tackled issues affecting the agricultural sector in Wales with the President of the Women's Food and Farming Union, IONWEN LEWIS.
Ionwen Lewis, a livestock farmer from Ceredigion, used the meeting to call for fair trade for British farmers. The Women's Food and Farming Union (WFU) President told the Assembly Member for Mid and West Wales that one simple way to support British producers was to look out for the Red Tractor logo in shops and supermarkets. The Red Tractor logo guarantees that food has been produced in the UK and to high standards, right from the farm to the shop shelf.
Joyce Watson welcomed the fact that more people were becoming aware of the benefits of buying British.
"The Assured Food Standards has reported that the value of Red Tractor products rose £1.5 billion to £7 billion during 2007. This shows clearly, that more and more people are buying quality British produce when they go shopping.
"As well as looking out for the Red Tractor logo in shops and supermarkets, I would encourage people to get out and explore their local farmers' market. They are not only a shop window for local producers selling top quality foods and other goods, but are also a great place to socialise and do your bit to support the local community.
"And with Easter coming up, local producers such as Pemberton's Chocolate Farm offer a special treat for all the family.
"In the run-up to last Christmas I ran a campaign to 'Make your Christmas shop a local shop'. I was delighted with the response that it received and I have continued to pursue the campaign with Ministers and colleagues in the National Assembly for Wales."
Mrs Watson also congratulated the WFU on 29 years of organisation, and praised the Union's role in raising the profile of women in the sector.
She added: "The contribution that women make to Welsh farming is all too often overlooked.
"Whether it's helping out in the day-to-day running of a farm or finding innovative ways to diversify the business, women are vital to the sector. The Women's Food and Farming Union has always given a strong voice to the women who understand farming best."
17th March 2008
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