Can I thank the Minister for his statement this afternoon? We, of course, all share your ambition to see a more prosperous Wales. We might sometimes disagree on how to achieve that, but I think it is true to say that, by and large, we as a party have supported your attempts to reinvigorate the economy with a more business-friendly approach, with the improvements in infrastructure forming a large part of your support for the private business economy in Wales. However, following on from Russell George's remarks, given its rather stumbling start, do you still believe that Transport for Wales has the expertise and the resources to deliver on your ambitions?

We all understand, if not the key enabler, a transport system that takes people and goods around the country in the most efficient and, hopefully, with maximum comfort, is one that has a major impact on the growth of the economy. Companies, for instance, now use the just-in-time operational methods, where they do not hold large stocks of components, but rely on fast, efficient delivery of such from a number of suppliers. So, fast, efficient transport systems are critical to these manufacturers, often deciding on where companies locate. Can I ask the Minister: has he had maximum consultation with companies with regard to these sorts of operations?

We all understand, Minister, getting people out of their cars and onto trains and buses is a major challenge. As you outline in your statement, Wales has suffered from underinvestment by the UK Government for far too long, and we appreciate the financial and operational constraints you operate under. We therefore fully support your call for the devolution of rail infrastructure projects and operations to Wales. I was going to ask you what sort of pressure you were putting on the UK Government to deliver those competencies, but I think in answer to earlier questions you've given a comprehensive answer to that.

We also support your connectivity ambitions with regard to the expansion of the metro principles to both north and west Wales. A transport system, whether by bus or rail, which links all of Wales must be a priority for the Welsh Government. Do you envisage that local authority bus companies will play a large part in that connectivity of these more remote regions?

Minister, in the past, industries linked up with and along lines of transport. In your statement, you refer to co-locating activities alongside rail networks. We would agree with this strategy, because it not only makes far easier market access but it would also enable more use of public transport for commuters, thus reducing overall traffic on our roads.

In conclusion, Minister, we welcome and support the ambitions laid out in your statement. We acknowledge that if Wales is to climb the economic league table and deliver better jobs, and subsequently better lives for the people of Wales, a fast, efficient, well-connected transport system is an essential ingredient in making this attainable. But please, Minister, sooner rather than later.