Questions Without Notice from Party Spokespeople

Part of 1. Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport – in the Senedd at 1:44 pm on 10 January 2018.

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Photo of Adam Price Adam Price Plaid Cymru 1:44, 10 January 2018

(Translated)

Well, I’m confused by that response, because I understand that the change of ownership that happened with the Pinewood group two years ago means that they have withdrawn from the business of providing advisory services with regard to investment, and the Minister referred to that. But that doesn’t explain why they no longer pay rent, nor why they are no longer a tenant for the studio. That has no connection to that particular question. So, if they’re not paying rent, how are they maintaining the studio? Is it under some kind of management agreement—this strange agreement that we can’t ask for details on?

So, I have to ask about the procurement process. Was there a procurement process for the management agreement for the studio? Did it happen in accordance with public procurement regulations? Why was the clause in terms of a minimum tenancy of five years, which was in the original agreement, ignored? Why would you have such a clause if you were just going to ignore it?

Was consideration given to other options, such as with the Bad Wolf studio, which is rented through a lease agreement with Screen Alliance for Wales? Why wasn’t a radical option considered, if I may say so, which is to run the studio directly? Elstree Studios are run and owned by Hertsmere Borough Council. Now, if a Hertfordshire council can run a studio, why can’t the Welsh Government?