Anglesey Freeport North Wales Economy 2023-12-19
2023-12-19
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The question follows an initial assessment request on the potential economic benefits of Anglesey freeport in North Wales. The MP seeks clarity on the government's plans for tax reliefs and investment.
What recent assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of Anglesey freeport on the economy in North Wales?
Anglesey freeport will be a national and international hub for trade, innovation and commerce, regenerating communities by attracting new business, and spreading jobs, investment and opportunity. We are working closely with the Welsh Government to extend tax relief windows in Wales.
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Assessment & feedback
The response does not provide a specific recent assessment or detailed figures on the economic impact of Anglesey freeport.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Building on initial questions about Anglesey freeport, the MP inquires about specific commitments related to tax relief extensions and economic forecasts.
Does he agree that if those extensions are realised in Wales, it will give companies the confidence to invest and help deliver the £1 billion investment, and thousands of jobs forecast for our Anglesey freeport? Will he join me in thanking all those at the Isle of Anglesey County Council and Stena Line who worked so hard recently to submit the outline business case?
We think Anglesey freeport may create 5,500 jobs. We are working closely with the Welsh Government to extend the 10-year window to claim reliefs across freeports in Wales. I pay tribute to my hon. Friend for putting Ynys Môn on the map.
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Assessment & feedback
The response does not confirm the exact extension of tax relief windows or provide a clear timeline for job creation and investment commitments.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP questions the appropriateness of placing a freeport in North West Leicestershire, given its already high economic growth and low unemployment rates.
Putting a freeport in North West Leicestershire, which already enjoys some of the highest economic growth in the country, has low unemployment, and is capable of filling its industrial sites without incentives, makes little sense. Will the Chancellor agree to meet me to discuss better alternatives for the east midlands than the Diseworth freeport site?
I would be happy to ask one of my colleagues to meet the hon. Gentleman to discuss why freeports are not appropriate in his part of Leicestershire.
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Assessment & feedback
The response does not commit to a direct meeting with the Chancellor but offers an alternative via another colleague, avoiding addressing the specific alternatives requested.
Response accuracy