Shared Prosperity Fund 2022-05-25
2022-05-25
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP inquired about the recent talks regarding how Wales's share of the UK shared prosperity fund would be used to level up communities.
What recent discussions has the Secretary had with the First Minister of Wales on the shared prosperity fund?
I have regular discussions with the First Minister of Wales on a range of issues, including how Wales's £585 million share of the UK shared prosperity fund will level up communities across our country.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP expressed concern that independent analyses suggest the shared prosperity fund could shift resources from poorer areas like the valleys to more prosperous regions in Wales.
Does the Secretary of State share my concern that according to a number of independent analyses, the shared prosperity fund is likely to shift resources away from the valleys, the poorest parts of Wales, to more prosperous parts?
Unsurprisingly, I contest the hon. Gentleman's assertion. By 2024-25, annual funding from the shared prosperity fund will match the average annual funding that Wales would have received from the European Regional Development Fund after adjusting for inflation. It is also noted by Guto Ifan, research associate at the Welsh Governance Centre.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific concern about resource shifting to more prosperous parts of Wales was not directly addressed or rebutted with concrete evidence against the claim.
Contest Hon. Gentleman'S Assertion
Noting Guto Ifan'S Statement Without Addressing The Core Issue
Response accuracy