I welcome the opportunity to raise the importance of the basic payment scheme in supporting Wales's hard-working farmers during today's debate and the need for it to be protected in the 2022-23 budget. The basic payment scheme, the BPS, is an integral part of Wales's farming industry, supporting farmers in their production of high-quality produce in a sustainable manner. I welcome the positive comments from the rural affairs Minister last month, in which she stated it was the Welsh Government's intention to maintain the basic payment scheme throughout 2022. The Welsh Government have the capacity to ensure that this is the case, and I would argue that it isn't reliant on the UK Government's future funding commitment, unlike what the Minister said. It's well documented that the Welsh Government's rural development plan falls short of its obligations and intent, and I would argue strongly that the prioritisation of future agricultural funding should be directed towards the BPS rather than the RDP. 

When the phrase 'public money for public goods' is bandied around, I see no greater public good than the food produced by dedicated Welsh farmers. And while this debate may only focus on the 2022-23 budget, I would add that the agricultural industry requires a long-term funding commitment. Indeed, NFU Cymru president John Davies said that we now need further commitment from the Welsh Government to maintain this funding. Therefore, I urge you, Minister, to work with your Cabinet colleagues, especially the rural affairs Minister, to ensure that our farmers continue to receive the support they require by prioritising funding towards the BPS. Diolch.