Jill Evans MEP visited Park Farm in Heol-y-Cyw, near Bridgend, last week to meet owner Phil Thomas and listen to his concerns about the new law governing egg producers in the EU.

Mr Thomas, who’s the FUW’s Glamorganshire vice chair, complained that while Welsh farmers have complied with the new laws, many other countries in the EU have not. This has resulted in Welsh producers facing a financial disadvantage as they are unable to compete with the cheaper eggs imported from other parts of the EU.

Jill Evans MEP with farmer and business owner, Phil Thomas.

Jill Evans MEP said,

“I understand Mr. Thomas’s concerns. Here is a case of a successful Welsh company being penalised because they’ve complied with the law. It’s completely unacceptable.”

To date, there are 12 EU states that have not fully complied with the law.

Ms Evans continued,

“Non-compliance is a problem that keeps reoccurring with animal welfare legislation. What I am calling for is a better system at an EU wide level to check whether countries are on track to meet deadlines. This system has already received support by my colleagues in the Agriculture Committee and will be included in the latest Animal Welfare Strategy."

“My message to consumers in Wales would be to buy local produce. Not only will you be helping Welsh businesses, but you will be assured that the products you purchase will have been produced to the highest of standards.”

Diwedd/Ends

Notes

1. Park Farm is a successful business with 6,000 free range, egg-laying hens.

2. Mr Thomas bought Park Farm three years ago and the hens are free to roam over 22 acres of land surrounding the barn.

3. Park Farm supplies eggs to Noble Foods whose brands include, “Happy Egg” and “Eggs For Soldiers”.