4. Statement by the Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales: Response to Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:15 pm on 10 June 2020.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Mandy Jones Mandy Jones UKIP 2:15, 10 June 2020

Thank you, Deputy Llywydd. Thanks for your update, Minister. As we all know, Wales relies on tourism, and nowhere more so than the region I represent and the one for which you have ministerial responsibility. Tourism's big business. We do it well in Wales. People love coming here for holidays. They spend their money improving our economy. But I'm being told by the caravan park sector in particular that business is draining away to England and a bad situation is being made worse as site fees are reliant on parks being accessible. So, people want refunds and, if standards are to remain high, maintenance costs will still be there. Businesses are losing faith. 

My questions are: what representations have you made to your Cabinet colleagues with regard to the gradual reopening of caravan parks in particular, which are mostly distanced apart? If Wales continues with restrictions that differ to the rest of the UK, what further support will you offer these businesses to ensure that the Welsh tourism industry is open to all? Graham Evans, from Parkdean Resorts, has asked if you are prepared to have a Zoom meeting with him. Would you be okay with that? And, finally, if the point of lockdown was to flatten the curve, I congratulate your Government on your success. So, will you—? Do you know when Wales will be open for business? Thank you.