3. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:16 pm on 15 October 2019.

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Photo of David Rowlands David Rowlands UKIP 3:16, 15 October 2019

Minister, I note with great concern the UK Government's decision to increase the Public Works Loan Board interest rate by a full 1 per cent—in fact, moving from 1.8 per cent to 2.8 per cent with immediate effect. This has the effect to take away the ability of local councils to borrow at a lower rate than that provided by private lenders and will inevitably lead to councils having to reassess their business plans, with possible cancellation of projects in order to continue funding current projects, as well as giving grave concern for delivering infrastructure and front-line projects at all. Would you, Minister, or the First Minister, make a statement on the Welsh Government's position in regard to this announcement?