Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Investment

Wednesday 5 July 2023 · 5 questions

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

At a glance

Answered 3 Partly answered 2 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Foreign investment in Wales created 3,062 jobs over the last year.
  • The Welsh Government's opposition to schemes like the M4 relief road is detrimental to Wales' economy.
  • Discussions are ongoing regarding growth deals to support a vibrant automotive sector in Wales.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Context

The MP noted the need for increased levels of foreign direct investment to support economic growth in Wales.

Question

What steps he is taking to increase levels of investment in Wales?

Answer from James Davies

Foreign investment created 3,062 jobs over the last year. With the number of FDI projects on the rise, more investors are looking to Wales due to £52 million for two new freeports and a commitment to deliver at least one investment zone in Wales. Additionally, £1 billion is being invested over the next decade to boost UK's global strengths in semiconductors.

Answered
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Context

The MP referenced the Road Haulage Association director, Geraint Davies, who warned that the Welsh Government's failure to commit to a modern road network is harmful for business.

Question

Does the Minister agree that supply chain businesses need 'a modern, functioning road network' and that the Welsh Government's failure to support this is a 'body blow', according to Geraint Davies?

Answer from James Davies

I absolutely do agree. The Minister highlighted that the Welsh Government's opposition to schemes like the M4 relief road and their £4.5 billion potential economic impact from a 20-mile-an-hour default speed limit are detrimental to Wales' economy.

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Context

The MP highlighted the importance of Gestamp's investment in Llanelli and asked about the impact of US and EU incentives on UK automotive investments.

Question

Given the US and EU offering big incentives to companies for green technology investment, what discussions has the Minister had with colleagues regarding similar incentives to maintain a vibrant automotive sector in Wales?

Answer from James Davies

The hon. Member is correct and important for her constituency. Growth deals are being discussed, which play an essential role, alongside regular discussions with the Secretary of State and other Government Departments.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specifics on incentives similar to those offered by US/EU were not provided

How: Pointing In The Direction Of Growth Deals, Regular Ongoing Discussions

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Context

The MP raised concerns about a hospital in Tywyn, which had to close after only six or seven years of operation due to travel distance issues for patients.

Question

Given the importance of adequate healthcare for investment in Wales, is my hon. Friend aware that a newly built hospital in Tywyn has closed and people have to travel long distances for care?

Answer from James Davies

The hon. Member is correct, raising difficulties with providing healthcare services in rural Wales, especially north Wales where accessibility remains a challenge.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific steps to address healthcare challenges were not mentioned

How: Raising Awareness Of The Issue

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Context

The MP, as a GP, stressed the importance of community engagement and asked for increased investment in policing to tackle crime effectively.

Question

As a GP, aware of the value of community engagement, will he ask the Home Secretary to increase investment in policing in Wales?

Answer from James Davies

The hon. Member is correct about more police officers being present than ever before across all forces in Wales, highlighting Government and Home Office investments in the uplift programme.

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