5. Debate on the Economy, Infrastructure and Skills Committee Report: Selling Wales to the World

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:21 pm on 28 November 2018.

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Photo of Russell George Russell George Conservative 3:21, 28 November 2018

Thank you, Deputy Presiding Officer. Can I thank the Members for taking part in the debate across the Chamber this afternoon? I should also like to thank, of course, the many witnesses who took part in our report—who are mentioned in detail in the report—and representatives of Welsh, UK, European and international businesses, and the cultural and educational organisations that we met with in Brussels as well.

David Rowlands, in his contribution, pointed out our visit to Brussels. It seems a long time ago, doesn't it, David, since we undertook that visit? But, he recalled some of the conversations that we had, and I do remember the conversation with Canadian Government officials, telling us that they had had little contact with Wales before. So, I think that there is a role here for Welsh Government—but not only Welsh Government. I think it's a role for all of us, as an Assembly, in our various committees as well. I think we've all got a responsibility to sell Wales to the world, not just the Government.

I hear the Cabinet Secretary's call, if there is that post created, that we should not be critical if there are expenses incurred by that Cabinet Secretary or that post whilst they travel around the world. I accept that, and you have my assurance that I won't do that. I think it's correct to scrutinise what's achieved from those visits, but I accept what the Cabinet Secretary is saying, and I make a commitment here today that he won't have that from me.

In other parts of the debate, Rhun ap Iorwerth and others correctly pointed out, of course, our call for that new Cabinet post—that loud voice, that joined-up thinking approach that was needed across Government in regard to Brexit and international affairs. We, as a committee, feel that that can be achieved by having that department—that Cabinet post—specifically for international affairs. The Government accepted our recommendation, but clearly it's a matter for the next First Minister, whoever he or she is. But, I accept that, in the response to our report, the Government pointed out that legislation permits only a number of Government positions. We accept that, but, of course, we believe, as a committee, that this is a priority in that regard.

Vikki Howells rehearsed the branding issue actually, which we discussed, in regards to that theme that changes every year, and that question about whether that is good branding. I do remember distinctly the Cabinet Secretary defending that annual theme. But, of course, there's the other side to that debate as well—that annual themes perhaps are not good for branding. So, I'm sure that discussion will continue on as well. I do share David Rowlands's disappointment that the Government only accepted recommendation 4 in principle.

The report looked at, of course, our three areas vital to our economy here in Wales. But, the work doesn't remain static. Wales is changing, and since undertaking that work as a committee, we've also undertaken work on the fourth industrial revolution. And, from our work in that area, it's clear that we just can't stand still and that our work in this area will be a changing feast, if you like, as well.

Can I thank Members for taking part in the debate this afternoon, and can I thank the Government for accepting nearly all of our recommendations?