5. Statement by the Minister for Economy: Supporting the creation of a Community Bank for Wales

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:44 pm on 14 December 2021.

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Photo of Vaughan Gething Vaughan Gething Labour 4:44, 14 December 2021

Well, if Banc Cambria were in any doubt about Members keenness for there to be a successful community bank for Wales with a proper presence in each constituency and communities within those constituencies, they can be in no doubt after the contributions of Members today. I recognise that the passion from Members is genuine because of the constituencies and regions you serve, where you're seeing the direct impact of banks leaving and what it means, particularly for those who are the most likely to be vulnerable or financially excluded. That's why I'm really positive about the fact that we're able to partner with a mutual institution, where they're not looking to take money out of Wales to go to other shareholders. It is the members who are their primary interest and they want to reinvest in those communities.

I do think we've got a good fit for what we're trying to achieve with the Monmouthshire Building Society. I look forward to receiving the investment proposal and I look forward to updating Members on it. More than that, I look forward to seeing if Banc Cambria can start to establish branches within the middle of this Senedd term, not only for the first branches that are established, but also for those other communities that will want to see a community bank branch established. I'm sure that the Member for Islwyn will be making her point forcefully and directly to Banc Cambria about the benefits and advantages of going to Islwyn, just as other Members will do the same for their constituencies too. Many thanks, Rhianon Passmore, and many thanks, Deputy Presiding Officer.