As outlined in my letter to Assembly Members on 1 November, we are in the process of appointing a contractor for these works and hope to award a contract this month. Works are programmed to start in January 2017 and should be completed by the end of March.

Officials have been discussing various aspects of this project over the last two years. I have asked that discussions continue, to determine whether a satisfactory business case can be submitted; demonstrating financial viability, the economic, cultural and linguistic benefits of the development and explaining the need for public sector intervention.

The Welsh Government continues to invest circa £180 million in rail services annually, including many additional services above those specified in the original Wales and Borders franchise. We also continue to fund a programme of rail infrastructures improvements, despite this area being non-devolved, to enable additional and enhanced rail services.

The apprenticeship levy is a UK Government led employment tax. Welsh Government has already determined its priorities for apprenticeships these include higher level skills and support for young people to make the transition into sustainable employment.

We are taking several wide ranging actions to increase prosperity by encouraging economic development across all parts of Wales. In north Wales, we are exploiting the significant opportunities that will arise from investment projects such as Wylfa Newydd, providing support through our dedicated business support service and investing in various transport schemes.

Welsh Government have entered in to an agreement with Liberty Properties over delivery of a leisure scheme on part of Bryn Cegin. Liberty Properties are currently in the process of seeking a planning permission for their proposed scheme as well as negotiating with potential tenants of the scheme.

We continue to provide financial support, where needed, to help businesses invest, grow and remain competitive.