Economic Growth 2023-07-05
2023-07-05
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The Welsh economy has not returned to pre-pandemic levels and unemployment is rising. The latest data shows poor economic performance compared to England.
What assessment has been made of the adequacy of economic growth in Wales? The most recent data indicates that the Welsh economy still has not reached pre-pandemic levels, unlike in England, where it exceeds those levels. Unemployment is also increasing, and there are concerns about the Labour Administration's policies.
My right hon. Friend is correct. It is deeply disappointing that growth in Wales is now below pre-pandemic levels, whereas in England it is above pre-pandemic levels. The Welsh Labour Government need to ask themselves some difficult questions and perhaps stop concentrating on nanny state policies such as the ban on meal deals, 20 mph limits, and bans on new roads.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about economic growth adequacy was not directly addressed with concrete figures or commitments.
Focused On Labour'S Policies Instead Of Addressing The Question
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
Zimmer Biomet is planning to cut more than 550 jobs in Bridgend, which has shocked local communities.
Can the Secretary of State make representations to the Business and Trade Secretary to encourage Zimmer Biomet to reconsider its decision and keep the jobs in Bridgend?
The hon. Gentleman makes a very useful and important point. Bridgend is a wonderful place in which to invest and do business, and the new freeport will make it even better in the vicinity. I have been in touch with the Department for Work and Pensions about that, but I am very happy to talk to those in the Department for Business and Trade about what further measures can be taken.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The Department for Business and Trade published a report showing that the Welsh Labour Government's Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething, attracted an additional 3,000 jobs to Wales.
Will the Secretary of State join me in congratulating the Welsh Labour Government's Economy Minister on his success in delivering economic growth through attracting additional jobs?
I think the hon. Lady will be aware that both the Minister for Economy in Wales and the Department for Business and Trade work closely with embassies across the world to ensure that investors know about the enormous opportunities that exist in Wales.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about congratulating was not directly addressed.
Shifted Focus To General Cooperation Without Direct Commitment
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The Labour party supports new nuclear projects for energy resilience and security.
What have the Government been doing to support new nuclear projects, especially after Hitachi withdrew from the Wylfa project?
I am delighted that the hon. Lady has set out that the Labour party now supports nuclear power. It was not something that was evident to us when Labour was in opposition a few years ago.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about actions taken by the Government for new nuclear sites was completely avoided.
Focused On Historical Support Of Labour'S Stance Instead
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The Department for Business and Trade published a report showing that the Welsh Labour Government attracted an additional 3,000 jobs to Wales.
On the 75th anniversary of our NHS, created by Nye Bevan, may I thank all our NHS staff in Wales? Will the Secretary of State join me in congratulating Vaughan Gething on his success in attracting foreign direct investment?
I think the hon. Lady will be aware that both the Minister for Economy in Wales and the Department for Business and Trade work closely with embassies across the world to ensure that investors know about the enormous opportunities that exist in Wales.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific ask about congratulating Vaughan Gething was not directly addressed.
Shifted Focus To General Cooperation Without Direct Commitment
Response accuracy