NFU Cymru has expressed “profound disappointment” that a vote on a motion to annul all-Wales NVZ regulations was narrowly lost in the Senedd on Wednesday.

NFU Cymru president John Davies said: “My thanks go to the Members of the Senedd who stood up for rural Wales by voting to overturn these regulations and who, like NFU Cymru, believe that there is a better way to safeguard and improve water quality in Wales.

“I am deeply disappointed that Welsh Government, in the height of a global pandemic, has proceeded with a copy and paste into Welsh law of one of the most ineffective and criticised pieces of EU regulation.

"I remain astounded why our government has ignored the 45 recommendations based on advice and guidance, voluntary approaches, investment support and smart regulation to improve water quality put forward in 2018 by an expert group chaired and resourced by its own regulator, Natural Resources Wales.

“I would also like to thank all those farmers who sent over 11,000 emails to their Members of the Senedd highlighting their concerns at the impact these regulations will have on their business and rural communities.

“These numbers show the strength of feeling and deep anxiety that there is against this Welsh Government decision.

“We have instructed our legal team to explore a legal challenge against Welsh Government’s decision to introduce the regulations.

“For our part we remain committed to our work in promoting best practice. Safeguarding and improving water quality remains a key priority for NFU Cymru but we are clear that our ambition will not be achieved through an all-Wales NVZ.”