QNR – in the Senedd on 10 February 2021.
Through the crisis we have provided the most generous package of support for businesses anywhere in the UK, with more than £2 billion committed to support businesses. This includes more than £520 million through the economic resilience fund and £360 million through business rates relief.
Investment in our local town centres is a key priority for reconstruction across all parts of Wales. This includes investment of £2.5 million next year in Neath town centre as well as support for Bridgend from the £15 million Transforming Towns regeneration funding package.
The consideration of children’s rights remains a priority in our budget preparations demonstrated by the range of allocations I have made to directly support children and young people, including targeted support for the most vulnerable such as £23.3 million extra for free school meals and an extra £2 million for PDG Access.
We have successfully concluded two procurement exercises, establishing the Welsh Education Partnership and awarding a contract to complete dualling of the A465. These contracts were contested by a wide range of bidders demonstrating the attractiveness of the model and that of Wales as a place of investment.