9. Will the Minister provide an update regarding recent progress made on the A465 section 5 and 6 improvements? OAQ53818

Yes. I'm pleased to say that I've agreed the draft orders for this stage of the dualling to be made, which, when finished, will complete the dualling and unlock the full range of social and economic benefits to be delivered by this groundbreaking project.

Thank you for that response, Minister. I'd just refer you to the Welsh Government’s website, which states that:

'The width of the road restricts traffic flow and opportunities for safe overtaking. In many areas there is poor visibility. Accidents on this stretch are concentrated around junctions and areas with poor visibility.’

So, I’m sure that you will agree with me that we do need to press on with the improvements to sections 5 and 6, and these improvements have been long anticipated by my constituents. So, do you agree that the completion of the Heads of the Valleys road is a vital and strategic component of our long-term plans to help uplift the Valleys communities? And can you confirm that, notwithstanding the ongoing delays on the Brynmawr-Gilwern stretch, completing sections 5 and 6 remains a Government priority and that construction will be commencing without undue delay?

Yes, I can assure the Member that the scheme has my full support. As I say, I’ve already approved the draft orders. All being well, construction will begin in 2020 and will be completed by 2023, and we’ll be seeking to exploit every benefit we can from this important investment that amounts to approximately £900 million for the Heads of the Valleys communities.

Thank you, Minister.