Welsh Food and Drink Inquiry Launched by National Assembly Committee

The inquiry by the Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs committee is set against a background of concern that many Welsh food and drinks producers will suffer as a result of Brexit, if it involves losing unfettered access to a major export market.

The inquiry aims to look at how Wales can develop an affordable and accessible local food culture, making Wales an international destination for food and drink.

Mike Hedges, chair of the Climate Change, Environment and Rural Affairs committee said, “There are many wonderful examples of high quality food and drink products from sea salt to chocolate to Welsh sparkling wine, not to mention our vital farming industry.

“We intend to look at how we can rethink the industry in Wales to make it more sustainable, more competitive in a crowded market, and how it can be better promoted to the world.

“We would like to hear from farmers, food producers, restauranteurs, and shop owners. Everyone connected with getting food from the field to the fridge.”

A consultation will be open for people to submit their own ideas and suggestions with a deadline of 14th September 2017.

The food and drink inquiry will be formally launched at the Royal Welsh Show in Llanelwedd on 27th July 2017. The launch event will include a tour of food and drink producers in the food hall at the Royal Welsh Showground from 10.30am.

More information can be found on the Committee’s web pages and via its Twitter @SeneddCCERA.