Farmers in Wales will be asked to set out their experience of regulatory “red tape” under a new Welsh Government review led by a Brecon-based beef and sheep farmer.

John Davies, a former president of NFU Cymru from near Brecon, has been appointed to chair a nine-month independent review examining the bureaucratic burden on family farms.

The review, commissioned by the Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability Llyr Gruffydd MS, will assess the cumulative impact of regulatory requirements on farm businesses and identify areas where changes could be made.

Mr Davies will speak directly to farmers and agents involved in completing paperwork and meeting on-farm requirements as part of the process.

The Welsh Government says the work forms part of its first 100-day commitments in office.

Mr Gruffydd said: "When we came into Government we said farmers would have a Minister on their side. This is us putting words into action. We understand that a farmer's priority is farming. Regulation is a necessary part of maintaining our world-leading standards, but requirements need to be proportionate and should not get in the way of sustainable food production and land management. Whilst some changes may take time, I've asked John to identify quick wins wherever possible so we can start making changes as soon as we can."

On taking up the role, Mr Davies said: “I welcome the opportunity to lead this review and look forward to getting started. I know first-hand the pressures farmers face in dealing with regulation, inspection and administration. I will be working closely with those in the sector who are at the sharp end to understand where improvements can be made. This is about finding practical ways to make a real difference on the ground."

NFU Cymru has also welcomed the review, saying it reflects long-standing concerns within the industry.

NFU Cymru President Abi Reader said: “Given that 15 years have passed since a review of red tape and bureaucracy was conducted, it is only right that such an independent assessment is held to evaluate how the cumulative impact of new policies and regulations introduced during this period are affecting the industry. The Minister’s announcement is a positive step and recognition of the real concerns being raised by farmers across Wales.”

She pointed to more than 80 per cent of members identifying regulation as a key concern in a recent survey.

“While regulation has an essential role in underpinning high standards, it must also be proportionate, workable and joined-up,” Ms Reader added.

“This review must focus on streamlining on-farm requirements, cutting duplication, improving clarity and ensuring that policy delivery is practical and achievable for farm businesses on the ground.”

The NFU Cymru president said the organisation would gather evidence from members to feed into the review, including examples of duplication and areas where clarity was needed.

Ms Reader added that Mr Davies’ appointment as the person to lead this work was “to be welcomed”, describing him as a well-respected figure with “an excellent understanding of the regulatory landscape”.