Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:58 pm on 7 November 2018.
Yes, absolutely. Despite my poor pronunciation today, I do try very hard to learn Welsh and I understand absolutely how important it is particularly to our rural communities across Wales. Part of it is the well-being of future generations Act that needs to be considered as part of that. That's why I say that a one-size-fits-all approach will not work, because we know each area of Wales has their own unique not just challenges, but characteristics as well. So, it's absolutely essential to consider that the Welsh language is key to that.
In addition, the strong benefit of our new regional model is that it provides a holistic approach to relationships with businesses. Hopefully, it will enable better collaboration with public sector delivery partners, including local authorities and providers of both higher and further education. It will enable better integrated infrastructure decisions, including transport and digital requirements as well as the provision of good-quality commercial property. The new chief regional officers are now in post and they're providing a regional voice in Government. They are listening to local partners and involving them in decision making. They're feeding back local intelligence that's helping to tailor Welsh Government's work.
It's important, though, to remember that the rural economy has benefited hugely from EU funds and our broader access to the single market. The Welsh Government has made clear that Wales should not lose out on any of that funding or through lack of access to the single market. A thriving rural economy is fundamental to help sustain viable communities throughout rural Wales to provide quality employment opportunities for our people, particularly including young people and to help to secure the Welsh language in some of the heartlands in rural Wales. We are therefore working to achieve the best outcome for Wales, but, as a responsible Government, we recognise the need to plan in the case of a 'no deal' scenario. Last month, the finance Secretary delivered an oral statement setting out the next steps in the development of a post-Brexit regional policy. The oral statement confirmed that any replacement funding will be invested to support regional development and reduce inequality. It also confirmed that we will continue to adopt a multi-annual approach towards investing any replacement funding to maintain a long-term focus on the structural challenges in our economy and labour market.
The Chancellor's announcement last Monday on the north Wales growth deal fell some way short of what the North Wales Economic Ambition Board had been hoping for. However, despite this, we remain fully committed to delivering this potentially transformative growth deal and will continue to work to get the package and direction right for north Wales, agreeing heads of terms for the deal as soon as possible. Similarly, we are fully committed to developing and securing a growth deal for mid Wales, and we'll continue to work closely with partners in the region and the UK Government.
May I finish by thanking, once again, all Members for their contributions and to conclude by reaffirming that this Government is committed to supporting our rural communities and economy for the prosperity of the whole of Wales? Diolch yn fawr.