NFU Cymru has written to the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs, Lesley Griffiths AM and again called for the proposed blanket NVZ (nitrate vulnerable zones, shown in yellow) regulatory approach to be reconsidered.

Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs) are areas within Wales that contain surface water or groundwater that is susceptible to nitrate pollution from agricultural activities.

Costly and complex NVZ regulation will test the Welsh farming industry.

NFU Cymru President John Davies said: "Last month, NFU Cymru submitted evidence to the Minister setting out why the whole territory NVZ approach was completely unjustified and disproportionate. Based on evidence from the existing NVZ designations within Wales, we are clear that this proposed regulatory approach will not improve environmental outcomes in terms of reduced agricultural pollution and water quality benefits.

"New and highly relevant evidence continues to emerge which intensifies our concerns about the ability of the sector to adjust to the proposed regulatory regime. This includes the supply chain issues in the dairy sector of recent days which will be causing high levels of anxiety. The report identifies the burden that regulation and administration places on farmers and the devastating consequences".