AS CONCERN grows about the state of Wales’ beef industry, a Pembrokeshire farmer has welcomed a review into the sector.

Farmer confidence is at an extremely low ebb due to low prices and fewer cattle being processed in abattoirs because of cheap imports, Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) has commissioned a review into the future of the beef industry in Wales.

Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) vice-president Brian Thomas, who farms pedigree beef shorthorns in north Pembrokeshire, says he has been inundated by phone calls from farmers regarding the current low prices and a fall in throughput at Welsh slaughterhouses.

“There is real concern out there with receipts for steers down between £170 and £200 a head, and this is having a major impact on farmer confidence,” said Mr Thomas.

“Without confidence the reinvestment needed to ensure the long-term viability of the industry will fall away.

“Farmers have also been unable to book cattle into slaughterhouses due to the fall in throughput caused by cheap imports, and this leads to an increase in losses as animals have to be kept for longer and may pass prime condition.”

Mr Thomas said these issues were adding to existing worries over the fall in single payment receipts.

“Many beef farmers will be hit hard by the movement to a flat-rate payment system and the decision to transfer 15% of the single payment budget to Pillar 2,” he added.

“The review instigated by HCC’s board of directors is extremely timely and welcome, and it is imperative that the findings are used to ensure the Welsh Government acts on its commitment to using Pillar 2 funds to improve farm profitability.”

The FUW has also reiterated its call for supermarkets to bolster support for the Welsh beef industry.