The Hospitality Industry

Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Economy – in the Senedd at 2:21 pm on 7 July 2021.

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Photo of Vaughan Gething Vaughan Gething Labour 2:21, 7 July 2021

Well, I praise the Member for mentioning so many different venues within his constituency. That was an impressive act that I'm sure others will look to emulate.

I have seen the real impact, and I think the Member's right on the fact that the use of outdoor space as a necessity in the pandemic is helping to change some behaviour and, in the future, I think more people will take advantage of the outdoor space that's been created. And I see some of that in the venue that my own son goes to for cricket and rugby, with the way that they've significantly expanded their outdoor offer, and it's been of real benefit and value. I should say, though, when I take my son to such events I don't take alcoholic beverages as I need to drive the car. 

I can't promise to accompany the Member on his very tempting invitation, but I do really take on board the point he's raising about the adaptability of businesses and the longer term benefit, and it does show that the choices being made to protect businesses now will hopefully have a much longer term benefit for businesses and jobs, and the Member's ability to visit hostelries within his constituency. [Laughter.]