Darren Millar, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives and Member of the Welsh Parliament for Clwyd West, has expressed concern that the Welsh Government’s response to the outbreak of bluetongue in livestock, will cause chaos in Wales.
 
Bluetongue is spread by midges and effects livestock, including sheep and cattle. It can kill animals but causes no threat to human health.
 
New Welsh Government restrictions will restrict all livestock from coming into Wales from England making it difficult for normal trade to take place.
 
The Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, which is recognised as one of the most significant agricultural shows in Europe, is facing a significant cut in livestock this year with no livestock from England and Scotland being allowed entry. Other more local shows, such as the Denbigh and Flint Agricultural Show, could also face similar consequences.
 
Darren Millar is concerned about the impact of the restrictions on farmers in Clwyd West, following on from the devastating family farm tax proposed by the UK Labour Government last year.
 
Commenting, Darren Millar said:

“These new regulations will cause huge financial problems for farmers, but they will not keep bluetongue out of Wales.
 
“We should align with England’s restricted zone policy with increased vaccinations to avoid unnecessarily harming the farming community further.
 
“I am disappointed that once again Welsh Labour are abandoning our farmers.
 
“We need to support farmers across Clwyd West, who are the cornerstone of our local community.”