3. Statement by the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Transport: The Economic Action Plan

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:30 pm on 22 May 2018.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 3:30, 22 May 2018

Can I thank Vikki Howells for her questions and say what a delight it was to be able to join her in her constituency at Pinkspiration, who provided a very clear idea of what it is to be a fair employer, an employer that values a diverse workforce, and values fair work and the principles of fair work? What the plan is designed to do is to drive behavioural and cultural change within business, and with some companies, we've already seen that accomplished. Pinkspiration is a great example of a company that does comply already very clearly with the criteria of the economic contract. Others need encouragement. This plan gives that encouragement. It gives it in the form of significant financial resource if they should apply for Welsh Government support. 

The behavioural and cultural change that is required, though, won't happen overnight. We will need further work to be undertaken in terms of collaboration across the business community in order to influence and inspire the sort of change that we require, because inclusive employment is something that really has been a challenge in many parts of Wales, for many communities, for many people. I met yesterday with Daniel Biddle who was a survivor of the 7/7 bombings. Daniel will be providing me with advice on inclusive employment, and what he was able to highlight were the multiple challenges facing disabled people in accessing work and then remaining on the employment escalator. In order to bring about cultural and behavioural change, it will require leaders in business to inspire other leaders in business to change their ways, and this is something that I'm particularly keen to see happen through the calls for action and the economic contract.