2. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:34 pm on 23 November 2021.

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Photo of Alun Davies Alun Davies Labour 2:34, 23 November 2021

Minister, over the last few months, we've seen the complete collapse of UK policy towards the European Union, and the collapse of many of the agreements made in the withdrawal agreement last year. The consequence of that may well be that article 16 is activated. This could cause enormous damage to the Welsh economy and to Welsh society. I'd be grateful therefore if the Welsh Government could make a statement on any contingency planning that is taking place in the Welsh Government with regard to ensuring that Wales is protected from any triggering of article 16. 

On a wider point, I'd like to ask for another statement from the Welsh Government on the damage that Brexit is doing to this country. We've seen trade agreements reached with Australia and New Zealand that could cause extraordinary damage to the agriculture industry. We've seen a shortage of drivers, which has affected all parts of our economy. We've seen price increases that are leading to a real crisis for many families up and down the country. We are seeing the Welsh economy put under greater stress than at any time in recent history, as a consequence of a failed Brexit con. It is incumbent on the Welsh Government to ensure that people in Wales understand this damage and that we in this Chamber have an opportunity to discuss how we can address the damage that Brexit is doing in Wales. So, it would be a useful exercise, I think, if the Welsh Government were to commit to making regular statements to this Chamber on the damage that Brexit is doing to Wales.