Our hardworking farmers are facing extremely uncertain times because of the Welsh Government’s proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme.
The scheme would require farmers to give up 10% of their land for tree planting and a further 10% for natural habitats.
Understandably, farmers are up in arms and held a protest - the largest in Welsh Parliament history - on the steps of the Senedd.
The scheme in its current form could lead to around 5,500 job losses, a 122,000 drop in livestock and a £199m loss to our economy.
It was a pleasure to meet so many farmers at the protest, including many from South East Wales, to get a better understanding of their concerns.
It’s clear the proposed scheme needs to be reworked to protect livelihoods and our farming industry.