Wales’ environment secretary Lesley Griffiths has said the Welsh government will push for “unfettered access” to the European single market as the UK government’s March deadline for triggering article 50 and beginning the formal Brexit process draws near.

The environment secretary was speaking during a visit to Coleg Cambria’s Llysfasi campus (which specialises in agriculture and farm skill courses). Talking to young and aspiring farmers, Griffiths said continued market access is a key priority for the Welsh government, and added that many farmers have voiced concerns that restricted access would have an adverse effect on the industry.

She also said she expected the UK Government to uphold commitments made during the referendum campaign that Wales would not lose a penny in funding as a result of leaving the EU. Welsh voters predominantly backed Brexit in June’s referendum.

The Cabinet Secretary said, “Since the referendum I have been engaging with a wide range of stakeholders to identify the full implications exiting the EU will have on the farming, food and environment sectors. Leaving the EU provides us with the opportunity to create a new, made in Wales approach and it’s important we work together to achieve the best outcome possible for Wales.”