TCE Weekly Devolution Monitoring Dashboard

Why Included?

High-reach personality who often amplifies criticism of Senedd policies like the 20mph limit

Statements

Farmer protests outside the Senedd, Cardiff

2024-01-28

Thousands of Welsh farmers protested the proposed Sustainable Farming Scheme, which would require land for trees and wildlife habitat.

He became the most visible face of the protests, leading a major agricultural demonstration and pressuring the Welsh Government into a partial U-turn.

Meeting with PM Rishi Sunak at Welsh Conservative Conference, Llandudno

2024-02-23

Jones met the Prime Minister while farmers protested nearby, triggering backlash from Welsh nationalists.

He said he meets all parties and criticised Mark Drakeford, while the episode amplified constitutional tensions around who represents Welsh farmers.

Direct quotes

"The sooner [Drakeford] goes, the better for Wales. His actions and words just proves to the majority of farmers that they don't want to listen."

YouTube and social media statement following death threats

2024-02-26

After death threats, he posted an emotional video about intimidation and clarified his position.

He said he did not want to dissolve the Senedd, while noting his criticism targets specific policies rather than the institution itself.

Direct quotes

"I don't want to dissolve our Welsh Parliament and Senedd. It is just Chinese whispers - people want to damage you. They want to damage you mentally, physically, emotionally... pressure, pressure, pressure."
"I've met every single party since I have been here on my farm. Everyone is welcome here on our farm for a chat and discussion. That does not give you the right to bully people."

London farmer protest, Whitehall - No Farmers No Food

2024-12-11

A major farmer protest blocked Whitehall with hundreds of tractors, with Jones as a leading figure.

He targeted both Cardiff and London, linking Welsh agricultural policy disputes with wider UK grievances.

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