NRW warns Welsh Government of ‘perverse outcomes’ of water rules

Lost opportunity

NRW also claimed the Welsh Government had ‘lost an opportunity’ in only considering two options – do nothing, or an all-Wales approach – and suggested the assessment did not follow the Welsh Government’s own RIA guidance on presenting a comprehensive range of implementation choices.

It also questioned the lack of analysis on water quality in the RIA and how proportionate the measures would be in areas where low nitrate concentrations are found, concluding the assessment would be ‘open to challenge’ from a number of stakeholders.

NFU Cymru deputy president Aled Jones said: “The information received from NRW through the FOI process only reinforces our concern that the RIA upon which an all-Wales NVZ decision is to be taken is flawed.

“As a result, NFU Cymru has written to Welsh Government and asked for the deficiencies to be addressed, with a fresh RIA to be undertaken without delay and ahead of the final decision to introduce regulation being taken.”

Action

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “Agricultural pollution is one of the main causes of water pollution.

"Action is needed to tackle the damage being done to the environment, our rural communities and the reputation of the farming industry. Industry leaders must recognise the scale of this issue and take a responsible approach.

“The Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs will consider all available evidence when making a final decision on nutrient management issues and regulation.”