FARMING in Wales “could not survive” Brexit unless agreements are reached before the process is complete, first minister Carwyn Jones has said.

The first minister appeared before a meeting of the Welsh Assembly’s external affairs and additional legislation committee yesterday, Monday, to face questions on the ongoing Brexit process and the potential impact on Wales.

Among the issues which were discussed were the potential impact of new trade tariffs or World Trade Organisation rules, which would apply automatically once the UK leaves the European Union unless other measures are put in pace beforehand, on Welsh farmers and other businesses.

Mr Jones, who backed the Remain campaign ahead of last year’s referendum and has since lobbied for Wales to be given a place at the table in negotiations, said he believed farming was “in the most vulnerable position” of being damaged if trade tariffs are put in place.

“Farming could not survive in Wales,” he said.

“I just don’t see how it could survive.”

Asked by South Wales East AM Steffan Lewis if he felt the stability of UK was sustainable with Brexit on the horizon, the first minister said he was concerned the UK Government had so far shown no willingness to engage with Wales and the other devolved nations over the issue.

“Brexit carries with it the seed of division in the UK,” he said.

“If the UK Government refuses to engage with devolved nations that does not bode well.”

He added: “Do I think we are in a position now where the UK is unsustainable?

“No, but I do think there is work to be done to ensure the UK stands together.”

Mr Jones said he was also concerned no meetings of the Joint Ministerial Committee (JMC), a body made up of representatives of the UK, Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish governments, had been called since Article 50, which begins the Brexit process, was triggered in March.

“We have been asking constantly for JMCs and they have been refused,” he said.

“It is hugely important we have a JMC soon as we can to understand what common ground there is.”

He added he believed the result of June’s General Election had thrown the process into further uncertainty.

“The UK Government’s position was clear before the General Election,” he said.

“Now it’s unclear.”

Mr Jones also said he was concerned action was being delayed until after the federal election in Germany, one of the most powerful countries within the EU, at the end of September, placing further strain on the Brexit process, which must be complete by the end of March 2019.

He said: “That is a incredibly tight timescale.”