The Welsh Conservatives’ Shadow Minister for Climate Change, Energy and Rural Affairs – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has today (28 October) welcomed a message of support from the John Lewis Partnership, who have committed to including high quality, UK made wool in a raft of their product offerings.  

This is the latest update in the Janet’s Welsh Wool Pledge campaign, which urges elected Members or the Welsh Parliament to commit to promoting the virtues of this natural fibre. Over recent weeks, Janet has written to bedding and carpet retailers, as well as the National Trust, to ask that they review their purchasing policies.   

In similar news, NFU Cymru have also announced that it is supporting the Welsh wool sector during its latest charity campaign. Having already raised £4,000 for the DPJ Foundation through the sales of polo shirts and branded gilets, the union will now sell branded ‘She Who Dares…Farms’ logo headbands to raise further funds for the mental health charity.  

Commenting, Janet said:    

“When you examine the virtues of Welsh wool, it is clear that its properties are perfect for bedding and carpets. Its unique structure allows it to absorb and release moisture without compromising its thermal efficiency. Wool is also not known to cause allergies and does not promote the growth of bacteria.   

“This is why I marked this year’s Wool Week by writing to national bedding and carpet retailers to ask that they review their purchasing policies. The pandemic has drastically impacted the price of wool clip and so our retailers can now play an essential role in supporting Welsh farmers by altering the materials used in their products.    

“I am delighted that the John Lewis Partnership has recognised that this fibre is synonymous with durability and sustainability. I also welcome the fact that the Partnership sources their fibre from British producers and will continue to ensure that their purchasing practices benefit our nation’s farmers.  

“This now stands as an example to other retailers, encouraging them to commit to review their purchasing practices. Many Welsh smallholders are ready to supply fleece and yarn, whilst several spinning and weaving companies throughout rural Wales can help to localise the manufacturing process.  

“I also wish to commend NFU Cymru for their ingenious idea to not only raise awareness for a worthy and important charity, but also support the Welsh wool sector when it needs help the most. I urge people to look at supporting this campaign, and our farmers, by purchasing the Eira headband.”  

ENDS   

Notes to Editors:   

• Please contact the office for a copy of the email from John Lewis.   
• Please find a NFU Cymru press release about the Eira headband, attached.