Horrendous figures have been obtained by the Conservative Party today in relation to the decline of the rural economy since 1997.  What is truly appalling is the extent of this decline here in Wales.

In general terms there has been a real term decline in Gross Value Added from agriculture, forestry and fishing and hunting in the UK since 1997.  The figures are as follows;

£million

In 1997 the Welsh Agricultural Economy was punching above our weight with our share of the UK agricultural sector standing at around 6.3% compared to our 5% share of the population. 

As a result of ten years of Labour rule (and eight years of the Assembly) Wales has accounted for some 60% of the entire decline in the size of the Agriculture sector in the UK.

Wales now accounts for less than 2.2% of the UK Agricultural Sector.  These figures confirm once again that the Labour Government and the Assembly Government in Cardiff have presided over a decline in the rural economy in Wales which is unprecedented.  Is it any wonder that rural areas continue to lose young people, services and schools?

Guto