Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:11 pm on 15 September 2021.
Diolch, Llywydd. Today marks the National Farmers Union's annual Back British Farming Day, a fantastic opportunity in which we can recognise, support and thank our hard-working farmers from across the United Kingdom. Welsh farming is the cornerstone of Wales's £7.5 billion food and drink supply chain industry, employing over 229,500 workers and contributing millions of pounds to Wales's economy. From Snowdonia's world-renowned cheese to Pembrokeshire's multi award-winning hand-picked early potatoes, our farmers are working 24/7, 365 days a year to deliver outstanding produce for the millions of families across Wales and the United Kingdom. Indeed, Llywydd, Back British Farming Day marks the perfect opportunity for us all to take a moment and reflect on the industry's contribution, both throughout the pandemic and beyond. During this pandemic, it was our farmers who continued to tend to the land to ensure that food was available throughout. As we continue to fight back against climate change, it is our farmers who, as the natural custodians of our environment, lead the way with their exceptional animal welfare and environmental standards. Therefore, Llywydd, I hope Members join me in taking the opportunity in saying 'thank you' to our farmers in recognition of their commitment and contribution. Diolch.