The Welsh Conservatives’ Shadow Minister for Climate Change, Energy and Rural Affairs – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has today (13 August) called for a review into public sector procurement practices, as she continues her #BuyLocalFood campaign.
The Public Sector in Wales is a significant contributor to the Food & Drink spend at an estimated at £78 million. Meanwhile, farming sector officials in Wales have consistently warned that large processors, especially big retailers, have become powerful price setters in agri-food chains. They argue that this is often to their detriment.
Commenting on the need for a review, Janet said:
“I’m urging the Welsh Government to launch a review into public sector procurement practices so we can maximise the level of Welsh produce being used in our hospitals, schools and government offices. As things stand, the current rules work only as an unnecessary barrier which prevent local producers from winning lucrative public contracts.
“With an increased carbon footprint, we all know that buying big is not always beautiful. Brexit provides an ideal opportunity to avail ourselves of this issue by renewing our support of hyper-local Welsh producers.
“By backing Welsh producers, it means that public money will circulate where it is invested. This will maximise our long-term support of local food and drink businesses, who provide essential employment opportunities, whilst encouraging a continued push towards high welfare standards.
“Of course, we remain indebted to our local food producers, delivery drivers, and farm workers. Their persistent and unwavering commitment to stabilise the food supply chain throughout the pandemic has not gone unnoticed.
“There is no better way to recognise this hard work then for us all, the people of Wales, to keep buying Welsh produce.”
ENDS
Notes for Editors:
- Janet’s ongoing #BuyLocalFood campaign has also called for the establishment of a local food charter, as well as investment in a digital campaign to promote Welsh produce. Find out more by clicking here.
