Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Economy – in the Senedd at 2:07 pm on 9 June 2021.
Thank you for the response, Minister. Minister, data shows that Wales's town centres have experienced the deepest decline in footfall out of the UK nations, and this is being felt in my constituency, as with many others represented here today. Short-term incentives need to be considered to help our struggling towns at a time when they most need it—things that could easily be delivered to support consumer spend and footfall. Simple but effective incentives such as Welsh Government-funded free parking in town centres, perhaps together with a street voucher scheme similar to that which is being operated in Northern Ireland, would be a really good start, and I believe the latter was something that featured in the Scottish Labour manifesto, so something that should be acceptable. These incentives would have a massively beneficial effect on our high streets and town centres at a time where they are in desperate need of our support. So, can I ask you, Minister, that you and the Government give these things some serious consideration? Thank you.