Economic Development in the Valleys

Part of 1. Questions to the First Minister – in the Senedd at 2:13 pm on 28 September 2021.

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Photo of Tom Giffard Tom Giffard Conservative 2:13, 28 September 2021

First Minister, I'm pleased to hear you mention roads in your answer there to Alun Davies. I'm sure you'll be aware that 78 per cent of goods moved in the UK are being transported by roads, and I'm sure you'll agree that one of the keys to efficient economic development in the south Wales Valleys is good transport infrastructure.

You'll recall that the UK Conservative Government abolished tolls on the Severn crossings in 2018. So, the news that the Welsh Government is considering introducing tolls or road-charging schemes on Welsh roads is a bitter disappointment. How will you ensure that any tolls or road-charging schemes will not adversely impact economic development, and what assurance can you provide that the aim of these schemes will not simply be to raise revenue?