Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Economy – in the Senedd at 1:43 pm on 29 September 2021.
Well, yes, we do need to see and hear more from you, Minister, and see what your strategy is going forward, as we emerge from this pandemic. Now, Minster, the United Kingdom Prosperity Index 2021 report says that some areas of the UK
'are experiencing especially significant challenges in productivity, competitiveness and dynamism', and, unfortunately, Wales is one of those areas.
'These areas typically have low business survival rates, fewer high-tech businesses, and few new businesses starting.'
That same report showed that
'Businesses in Wales have a weak Investment Environment with low capital supply, little demand for expansion, and 31% of projects are delayed due to a lack of financing', which is, unfortunately, the highest rate in the United Kingdom. Now, the Welsh economy is crying out for leadership, and yet, since the election, we have seen so little from the Welsh Government in terms of its commitment to the Welsh economy, and businesses across Wales deserve much better. So, Minister, can you tell us what new ideas the Welsh Government has to create conditions for enterprise here in Wales? And can you make it clear for businesses in Wales today what exactly the Welsh Government is doing to strengthen Wales's investment environment so that our home-grown businesses have opportunities to expand and grow, particularly as we now emerge from this COVID pandemic?