Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Economic Growth

Wednesday 11 September 2024 · 4 questions

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 0 Partly answered 3 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Claire Hughes inquired about recent discussions on supporting economic growth in Wales, focusing on renewable energy and manufacturing.
  • Torsten Bell questioned how the UK and Welsh Governments will work together to support Welsh universities facing challenges.
  • Claire Hughes raised concerns about Avanti's poor rail performance hindering economic growth in her constituency.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Claire Hughes Lab Bangor Aberconwy
Economy Scotland Wales
Context

The question arises from the government's mission to support economic growth across the UK, focusing on opportunities within Wales.

Question

What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on supporting economic growth in Wales. The Government's No. 1 mission is to kick-start economic growth across the United Kingdom. Wales can be at the forefront of that mission, with renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, our vibrant creative sector, fintech and the life sciences each offering huge opportunities to create jobs and drive growth.

Answer from Nia Griffith

This Government's No. 1 mission is to kick-start economic growth across the United Kingdom. Wales can be at the forefront of that mission, with renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, our vibrant creative sector, fintech and the life sciences each offering huge opportunities to create jobs and drive growth.

Not addressed: Specific discussions on economic support measures for Wales

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

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

Get updates like this by email
Q2 Torsten Bell Lab Swansea West
Education Economy Scotland
Context

Welsh universities are facing difficulties due to redundancies and the economic situation, affecting their ability to contribute to local communities.

Question

Welsh universities are central to economic growth in many of our communities. Swansea University has already seen 200 voluntary redundancies, and more are happening across Wales. How will the two Governments work together to nurture these crucial institutions?

Answer from Nia Griffith

Welsh universities, including Swansea University, have a huge contribution to make to economic growth. The Secretary of State and I met with Professor Paul Boyle last week to discuss the challenges facing Welsh institutions and ways of supporting higher education in Wales. Colleagues at all levels are working closely together to safeguard those universities' potential amid difficult economic circumstances.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific update on collaboration efforts between UK and Welsh Governments

How: Under Review

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

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

Get updates like this by email
Q3 Claire Hughes Lab Bangor Aberconwy
Economy Transport
Context

Avanti trains are performing poorly, affecting passengers and businesses in Bangor Aberconwy. This is hampering economic growth.

Question

Passengers on the north Wales coast are being let down by Avanti's poor performance. This issue affects passengers and businesses, hampering economic growth in my constituency of Bangor Aberconwy. What specific discussions has the Secretary of State had with our right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport on this issue?

Answer from Nia Griffith

My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State met the Transport Secretary last week to discuss rail connectivity, including the performance of Avanti. Ministers and officials are holding regular performance reviews with Avanti and Network Rail, monitoring compliance with contractual obligations, aiming for better services for constituents.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific details of discussions on resolving performance issues

How: Under Review

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

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

Get updates like this by email
Q4 Carla Lockhart DUP Upper Bann
Economy Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Context

Today is Back British Farming Day, highlighting the importance of the agrifood sector to economic growth.

Question

One of the biggest contributions to economic growth is the agrifood sector. Does the Minister agree that farmers need support from this Government to reach their full potential and contribute to economic growth?

Answer from Nia Griffith

Farmers make a huge contribution both to economic growth of the country and food security. We are determined to work hand in hand with the Welsh Government to ensure we can offer the best to our Welsh farmers.

Partly answered

Not addressed: Specific measures or support for farmers

How: Under Review

Was this summary accurate? Tell us

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

Get updates like this by email