NFU Cymru Deputy President Aled Jones commented “This is a crucial debate, one that will have implications for our industry for years to come. Future trade deals must not be at the expense of our own domestic producers and allow food to enter the country that is produced using processes that would be illegal here. Our farmers need to be able to compete on a level playing field. I am asking every Welsh Member of Parliament to support Welsh farmers and back these amendments which have been put forward by the House of Lords.”

The Lord Grantchester amendment would place a requirement on government to ensure that agricultural and food imports meet domestic standards. Through this amendment, no trade agreements can be ratified unless a government minister confirms that imports will meet or exceed relevant domestic standards.

The second amendment, brought forward by Lord Curry, looks to provide a legal basis for the newly established Trade and Agriculture Commission and strengthen its remit. The amendment seeks to establish a permanent role for the Commission to make recommendations to Parliament on the compatibility of future negotiated trade deals to ensure they align with the government’s commitment not to undermine UK agriculture and food standards.

Aled Jones concluded “It is vital that Parliament has the opportunity to properly scrutinise all future trade deals and ensure that our high food production standards are protected. We are calling on all Welsh MPs to support amendments to the Agriculture Bill during Monday’s debate to achieve that.”