Local Member of the Senedd Samuel Kurtz is urging people to take part in a potential new law that puts Welsh food at the heart of decision making in Wales.
The Food (Wales) Bill is a Members’ Legislative Proposal – which is similar to a Private Members’ Bill in the UK Parliament – which is set to establish a more sustainable food system in Wales, strengthening our food security, improving Wales’ socioeconomic well-being, and enhancing consumer choice and was brought forward by Peter Fox MS.
The proposal has already gained cross-party support and has been welcomed by several organisations within the food and agricultural sector.
Today, the local Member of the Senedd for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire – Samuel Kurtz MS – is working with his colleague Peter Fox MS in calling on local residents to submit their thoughts on the proposed bill.
Speaking about the matter, Samuel said:
“This is a fantastic piece of legislation from my colleague Peter Fox MS. Not only will it strengthen our food security and enhance consumer choice, but it can be yet another tool in our chest in the fight against climate change.
“By bolstering our food production capacity we’ll become less reliant on imported produce with hundreds of air miles. Given that the UK imports around 45% of all consumed food, this piece of potential legislation can help us scale-up our own food production, safeguarding our food security for years to come.
“If you’ve got any thoughts on this proposal, then please consider submitting them as part of the consultation. Your input can help shape the future of Wales’ food production policy.”
Peter Fox MS also added:
“This is our last chance to safeguard the future of local producers here in Wales.
“For too long we’ve taken for granted our food production and its security.
“That is why I believe it’s our collective moral responsibility for all politicians to now get behind my Bill to secure our food security for generations to come.
“If we do not deliver this Bill, future generations will look at this period as a missed opportunity."
More information about Peter Fox’s Members’ Legislative Proposal can be found here: https://senedd.wales/senedd-business/legislation/proposed-member-bills/development-of-the-food-wales-bill/
The initial consultation will run until 26 November, and responses gathered will be used to help inform work on the bill should the proposal be accepted by the Welsh Parliament. You can submit your own contribution by visiting https://www.peterfox.uk/news/food-bill-consultation-launched.
