The Welsh Conservatives’ Shadow Minister for Climate Change, Energy and Rural Affairs – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has today (14 August) written to the Welsh Government to urge for the mandatory use of Welsh wool in new home insulation schemes. 

This summer, Welsh sheep farmers have seen the price they receive for their wool clip collapse as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some sheep farmers now receive merely 28p a fleece, an amount which is dwarfed by the cost of shearing. This year, industry officials predict that the value of wool is set to drop by at least half. 

Commenting on her letter to the First Minister, Janet said:  

“This has been an incredibly difficult year for Welsh sheep farmers, who have sadly witnessed a collapse in the price of wool clip as a result of the global COVID-19 pandemic. 

“I have sadly heard that several farmers have taken the difficult decision to plough their wool into their fields as fertiliser. It is heart-breaking to see such decisions having to be taken, adversely impacting a farmer’s hard-earned livelihood. 

“I have written to the Welsh Government to urge Welsh Ministers to look at making the use of Welsh wool mandatory in new home insulation schemes, as well as for future insulation and carpeting upgrades in Welsh public buildings. 

“Elected Members have a platform from which to pursue policies that place the best interest of agriculture and farmers at the heart of devolution.  By modifying our purchasing practices, we will be sending a bold signal of support for an industry that is integral to the Welsh economy.” 

ENDS 

Notes for Editors:  

• Please find Janet’s letter (dated 14/08/2020) to the First Minister, attached. 

Photo: Janet Finch-Saunders MS