Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Connectivity and Infrastructure within Wales and Cross-border

Wednesday 19 May 2021 · 6 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 3 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Ministerial discussions with the Secretary of State for Transport on connectivity and infrastructure within Wales and cross-border are regular.
  • The A55 upgrade is a priority due to its impact on tourism and economic growth.
  • The Union connectivity review aims to improve access and economic prosperity in Wales.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Marco Longhi
Transport Wales
Context

The MP is concerned about discussions on connectivity and infrastructure, particularly cross-border issues.

Question

What recent discussions has he had with the Secretary of State for Transport on connectivity and infrastructure within Wales and cross-border?

Answer from Simon Hart

My hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State and I have regular discussions with ministerial colleagues about cross-border connectivity and the Union connectivity review.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Get updates like this by email
Q2 Scott Benton
Economy Transport
Context

The MP notes the importance of tourism and economic growth, highlighting popular tourist attractions across regions.

Question

Does he agree that delivering on the manifesto pledge to upgrade the A55 must remain an absolute priority due to its impact on tourism and economic growth?

Answer from Simon Hart

I am very grateful to my hon. Friend for raising that question, and he is right. We visited with the Transport Secretary recently. That is very much in our sights, and we hope to have some good news about it in the foreseeable future.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Get updates like this by email
Q3 Marco Longhi
Transport Wales
Context

The MP references the importance of sunshine, sandy beaches, and tourism.

Question

What can he do to improve the wellbeing of his constituents by improving access to beaches in Wales?

Answer from Simon Hart

We cannot move Dudley, but what we can do is progress the Union connectivity review and strengthen the links. The review aims to bring economic prosperity to both areas.

Answered
Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Get updates like this by email
Q4 Liz Saville-Roberts PC Dwyfor Meirionnydd
Transport Wales
Context

The MP mentions a study showing Wales would be over half a billion pounds better off if treated like Scotland in relation to HS2 and rail funding.

Question

What percentage of HS2 supply chain firms should be based in Wales?

Answer from Simon Hart

There will be numerous opportunities for businesses in Wales to be part of the supply chain, not only in construction but thereafter. We want Wales to benefit from HS2 improvements.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific percentage

How: Glad That The Right Hon. Lady Has Recognised The Relevance, We Recognise The Importance

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Get updates like this by email
Q5 Liz Saville-Roberts PC Dwyfor Meirionnydd
Wales
Context

The MP notes a real-terms cut since 2010 and the need for additional investment to remain competitive.

Question

Will he work with DCMS to ensure additional investment for S4C?

Answer from Simon Hart

The Wales Office has made some very strong submissions to DCMS. The decision has yet to be made, but I urge her and other colleagues to continue making their case.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Commitment to additional investment

How: Confirmed That The Wales Office Has Made Some Very Strong Submissions

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Get updates like this by email
Q6 Chris Elmore Lab Bridgend
Economy Local Government
Context

The MP is concerned about the performance of BEIS and HCLG Ministers at a committee meeting regarding the levelling-up fund.

Question

Will there be funding available for second and third funding bids, and will he commit to a further meeting with all Welsh MPs?

Answer from Simon Hart

Certainly as far as meetings are concerned, I am more than happy to confirm that we will put those in the diary. Whether they are with the MHCLG or others is a matter for discussion. The levelling-up fund is here to stay.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Commitment to same level of funding

How: We Have Done It On A Number Of Issues, I Recognise That There Are Lessons To Be Learned From Year One

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

How accurate was this summary? (1 = poor, 5 = spot on)

Get updates like this by email