7. Cabinet Secretary, what measures will the Welsh Government introduce to support businesses in Wales in the fifth Assembly? OAQ(5)0001(EI)

We are a pro-business Government and one of my first priorities will be talking to businesses large and small, as well as key partners, about their views on developing the right approach to grow prosperity and deliver greater financial security for businesses and individuals, right across Wales.

Thank you for the reply, Secretary. Business rates can be a company’s biggest expense after wages and rent. The Welsh Retail Consortium has warned that Welsh retailers could see the steepest rise in business rates in the United Kingdom from the next year, once the revaluation of properties takes effect. Does the Minister agree the time has come for a radical review of business rates, to make the system fair, effective and efficient and better linked to a company’s ability to pay in Wales?

I thank the Member for his question regarding business rates. Of course, the reason that we made one of our top pledges a reduction in tax on business was because of the value that small businesses have to the economy right across the country. Chris Sutton carries out important work in this regard and I take his advice very seriously and I scrutinise what he has to offer very carefully and, of course, if he returns with more advice in this regard I will consider it appropriately.

And finally, question 8—Rhun ap Iorwerth.