Context
The question follows the announcement of a new investment zone for Cardiff and Newport, focusing on semiconductors and advanced manufacturing. The industrial strategy aims to lower energy costs and improve grid connections for manufacturers.
Question
What assessment has been made of the potential impact of the industrial strategy on advanced manufacturing in South Wales? I welcome the Minister’s response and the additional support for the compound semiconductor cluster in my constituency. What conversations have you had with Welsh Government colleagues on delivering joint objectives of the Welsh manufacturing action plan and UK industrial strategy to attract additional investment and jobs to the Welsh semiconductor cluster?
Answer from The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Business and Trade (Chris McDonald)
I thank my hon. Friend for her work to champion the Welsh semi-conductor cluster, which is vital for our advanced manufacturing sector. My colleague, the Minister for artificial intelligence and online safety—the Under-Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology, my hon. Friend the Member for Vale of Glamorgan (Kanishka Narayan)—was in Wales last week, meeting industry leaders and co-chairing the semiconductor advisory panel. Additionally, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Business and Trade recently attended the Wales investment summit. We are keen to attract further investors to the compound semiconductor cluster in south Wales.
Not addressed: The exact details of conversations with Welsh Government colleagues were not provided, only a general statement acknowledging meetings and initiatives.
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