Welsh Conservatives have today called for early access to the Basic Payments Scheme (BPS) in Wales – and an end to Labour refusals and confusion.
With the farming industry facing significant challenges, every possible level of support is a necessity from Welsh government and the Deputy Leader of the Welsh Conservatives has questioned Labour ministers on early BPS access.
In a written response, Labour’s junior rural affairs minister ruled out any possibility of paying Welsh farmers as quickly as possible – despite acknowledging it was a viable option:
The European Regulations governing BPS set the payment window as 1st December to 30th June. Advance payments of up to 50% of a claim may be made from 16th October. However, Rural Payments Wales is unable to process the required number of Single Application Forms to utilise this provision. (Rebecca Evans, Deputy Minister, August 18th)
This week, in the Senedd, Deputy Leader and Preseli Pembrokeshire Assembly Member Paul Davies posed the same question to Labour’s Finance Minister, who appeared to contradict her colleague:
“….Early access is what we’re seeking”.
(Welsh Assembly Record of Proceedings, 15th September, ‘Business Statement and Announcement’ http://www.assembly.wales/en/bus-home/Pages/Plenary.aspx?assembly=4&cat…)
Mr Davies said:
“Welsh Conservative aims are simple: Boosted support for farmers, help at every turn, and early access to basic payments.
“It’s possible – and it should happen.
“In Labour, confusion reigns. The left hand has no idea what the right is doing and the junior minister in charge of farming has ruled out additional support.
“Labour acknowledges it’s possible but won’t allow it to happen.
“That’s a disgrace at any time, let alone during a period of crisis in Labour-run Wales. Our farming industry is struggling and confidence in Labour ministers is at an all-time low.
“This government must get its act together, prioritise support and allow early access to basic payments.”
Welsh Conservative Shadow Minister for Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Russell George AM, said:
“The significant challenges facing our meat and dairy industries – and in every aspect of Welsh farming – are at an all-time high.
“The industry is at a crossroads in Wales and the Welsh government has a duty to ensure all possible support is available.
“Labour ministers are failing to do that and their attitude towards basic payments is the unwanted and unnecessary icing on the cake.
“The refusals should end and farming communities should receive urgent clarity.”