Farm leaders: Welsh dragon emblem must be prioritised over Union Jack
I read this today on BBC News. The article reveals the conflict among different parties regarding ‘branding food and drink exports from Wales after Brexit’. It is considered crucial that whether the Welsh dragon emblem or the UK Union flag should used to market Welsh food product.
Here are some of the perceptions:
“We must prioritise the Welsh dragon – it’s much more than a logo. It’s a promise of where it has come from, the landscape of Wales, the traditional methods used to produce food to the highest standards, which adds value.” (Gwyn Howells, chief executive of Meat Promotion Wales – Hybu Cig Cymru)
Wales’ food and drink industry had enjoyed success, gaining recognition for its food producers. “We believe post-Brexit it will be a priority to authentically brand food and drink production in Wales as truly sustainable, which can be independently verified.” (A Welsh Government spokesman)
Wales should be “embracing both brands”. “We need to be led by the marketeers – we have the great opportunity to use two marketing platforms, let’s not rule one out.” (Andrew RT Davies AM, Welsh Conservatives spokesperson on the environment and rural affairs)
The status of protected produce, including from Wales, would automatically become part of the UK geographic indications (UK GI) scheme following Brexit to ensure “their unique heritage and quality is safeguarded”. (UK Government)
This debate on ‘authenticity’ is not only about a query about the history or heritage of Wales but also related to the economics and politics. Although most parties involved provide ‘evidence’ (e.g. market research data) to support their argument, this evidence is certainly not the sole factor taken into consideration when they take sides.
Read more
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-47199506
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-47199506
Contributed by JarynHuang on 12/02/2019
