Hospitality Businesses

Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Economy and Transport and North Wales – in the Senedd at 2:26 pm on 7 October 2020.

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Photo of Ken Skates Ken Skates Labour 2:26, 7 October 2020

Can I thank Huw Irranca-Davies for his question? He makes a very important point—that independent brewers are not just important for the food and drink sector, but actually they're important for our culture and identity. I've visited many independent brewers across Wales, and their contribution to the economy is quite extraordinary. They are creative, they show great resolve as well, when they're up against large international brewers, and so we've listened to them very carefully in terms of what support is required to assist them through this pandemic. Indeed, the Minister for International Relations and Welsh Language, and the Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism, have established and regularly attend a hospitality stakeholder group to consider the impacts on the sector of the pandemic. The views of that group feed into the work that I take forward within my department, and I'm pleased to be able to say that the views of the independent brewery sector informed the decision to ensure that there is that £20 million fund specific to tourism and hospitality businesses. And, of course, independent brewers will be able to apply for business development grants, which could prove to be hugely, hugely helpful in transitioning to the post-COVID reality. But equally, you're right to say that the UK Government has an important role in this, and we've consistently called on the Chancellor to increase the level of support to sectors that are subject to Government restrictions, including hospitality.