Due to Coronavirus restrictions at the time, the meeting was held virtually with members from across the counties joining to hear what Mrs Batters had to say.
Discussing the recent trade deal with Australia, she said: “On the face of it there appears to be nothing in the deal that benefits Brecon and Radnor farmers but instead there seems to be rather a lot to please our Australian counterparts. This will unfortunately heap further pressure on our farm businesses already facing serious challenges such as rocketing input costs, a squeeze on labour and changes to farm policy.
UK given in to Australian demands
“I was particularly disappointed that the UK Government has given in to Australian demands on the final outstanding areas still being negotiated, despite the UK Government’s assurances on sensitive sectors, products such as beef and lamb will be completely liberalised with no safeguards after 15 years, sugar after eight years and dairy after just six. The quotas will also be calculated on the basis of product wright, meaning more high value cuts can be prioritised for export by Australian producers putting further pressure on marker returns for British beef and lamb producers.
“The truth is, when it comes to agriculture, this is a one-sided deal. The Australians have achieved all they have asked for. While none of us can predict the future, the upshot is likely to mean UK farmers will be increasingly competing against food that is produced under a system with different rules and with significantly lower costs of production.”
NFU Cymru President John Davies also addressed members and touched upon some of the work of the union over the last year including NVZs, BPS and Glastir, the #GrowingTogether policy work and bovine TB.
Outgoing NFU Cymru Brecon & Radnor County Chairman, Geraint Watkins said: “I would like to thank both Minette and John for taking time out of their very busy schedules to speak with us. It is always fascinating to hear about the behind the scenes work our officeholders undertake.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Brecon & Radnor’s very own John Davies, our President, for all his work and commitment to the union, its members and Welsh farming during his time in office. His passion and dedication are second to none and we wish him the very best for the future.”