Welsh Conservative Leader Andrew RT Davies has backed Powys farmers on a visit to the Welsh Venison Centre in Bwlch.

In a wide-ranging chat with owners Andrew and Elaine Morgan, Mr Davies discussed the main challenges facing the local agricultural industry.

First Minister Mark Drakeford recently said Welsh farmers will not get subsidies if they cannot be justified to Bangladeshi taxi drivers, comments Mr Davies described as “unacceptable and absurd”.

They also discussed the Welsh Government’s acquisition of nearby Gilestone Farm, which the Welsh Government acquired recently to host the Green Man Festival.

The purchase price of £4.2million was £1million higher than when the farm was advertised on the open market.

Mr Davies said, “The Welsh Venison Centre showcases the best of Powys produce and it was great to catch up with Andrew and Elaine.

“Farming makes Powys what it is. But the local industry faces challenges, and they need our support.

“Our food security depends on producing our own food. And the First Minister’s comments were absurd.

“For him to casually dismiss farmers’ concerns to shore up his core support in cities is dangerous for us all.

“The Welsh Government’s priorities must change drastically. The Gilestone Farm saga is just another example of the mismanagement that we can’t afford.”