4. Statement by the Minister for Economy: Stronger Regional Economies

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:56 pm on 18 January 2022.

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Photo of Mabon ap Gwynfor Mabon ap Gwynfor Plaid Cymru 3:56, 18 January 2022

(Translated)

That is, economic growth is dependent on investment in infrastructure. Infrastructure is an economic multiplier, after all. In 2015, the OECD said that there was huge regional imbalance within the United Kingdom, and I'm concerned that the weaknesses of the UK could be reflected here in Wales. For example, rural areas continue to suffer from a lack of provision of broadband and mobile phone networks, as well as other infrastructure weaknesses. Does the Minister therefore agree that we need to ensure that there is significant investment in our infrastructure to see balanced economic growth in all parts of Wales? And finally, does the Minister agree that we should encourage the development of co-operative enterprises and community ownership of local resources to lock money into the local economy and to prevent the extractive economy, ensuring local jobs? Thank you.