6. Statement by the Minister for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd: BlasCymru/TasteWales

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:34 pm on 30 January 2024.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 5:34, 30 January 2024

Minister, thank you so much for your statement today. It is fantastic to see the value of the food sector to the Welsh economy, and the way it provides so many work opportunities for people up and down Wales. I'd also echo the comments from Jack Sargeant about the passion that you show as Minister and the support that you give our food producers day in, day out.

Just a few questions, Minister. First of all, have you noticed any emerging trends regarding tastes in food? Secondly, would you agree that with, every day, a new restaurant receiving awards in Wales, the restaurants of Wales, the hospitality sector, have a vital role to play in promoting food production and highlighting the quality of food produced here in Wales? And finally, in this area Coleg Cambria do a magnificent job in providing skills training for young people in food preparation and hygiene. Would you take this opportunity to congratulate and thank all of those skills providers who do such a magnificent job to give opportunities to young people in this sector? Diolch.