Infrastructure 2020-01-15
2020-01-15
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
▸
Context
Discussions on the lack of electrification west of Cardiff and the investment needed for Swansea and west Wales.
What recent discussions has he had with the Welsh Government on the resilience of infrastructure in Wales? Will he, along with his minister, do better than predecessors by funding a more integrated system like a Swansea Bay metro?
Met Ken Skates, the Minister for Economy and Transport, last week. Shared view that spending hundreds of millions on electrifying line from Swansea to Cardiff would not decrease journey times. £5.7 billion into Great Western main line, £2.8 billion into modernisation, over £1.5 billion into Wales and borders route. Will continue such investments and work with the hon. Lady for further rail improvements.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
▸
Context
Concerns about loss of EU funding post-Brexit and the possibility that investment might go to predominantly Conservative areas.
Welsh currently benefits from £680 million a year in EU funding, including projects such as Blaenau Ffestiniog (£4.4m), Tywyn (£3.4m), Llanbedr airfield (£7.5m). After Brexit, fears that money will not reach deprived areas due to loss of EU principles. Can the Minister allay these fears?
Thank you for welcome. Absolutely committed to ensuring that Wales does not lose out by one penny due to Brexit. Hundreds of millions of pounds will be invested through growth deals across Wales, levelling up communities.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy