CLWYD South MP Simon Baynes has welcomed the announcement of a new Trade and Agriculture Commission which will focus on food standards in international trade deals.

Secretary of State for International Trade, Rt Hon Liz Truss MP, said the commission will make recommendations for agricultural trade policy, higher animal welfare standards and export opportunities for farmers.

The commission has been created following positive discussions with farmers’ unions and has been welcomed by NFU President Minette Batters as a “hugely important” development.

Mr Baynes said: “I’m really pleased that the UK Government have announced the creation of a new Trade and Agriculture Commission. This is great news for the agriculture industry in Clwyd South and the rest of the UK.

"And [it] will ensure that any future trade deals do not undermine our high environmental and welfare standards.

“I know both the NFU and the FUW have campaigned hard for this, and I’m pleased to have been able to pass their concerns and those of Clwyd South residents on to UK Government Ministers.

“I’m very proud that we will reinforce our high food and farming standards as we seek to expand our trade globally.”