Questions Without Notice from Party Spokespeople

Part of 2. Questions to the Minister for Economy – in the Senedd at 2:35 pm on 11 May 2022.

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Photo of Heledd Fychan Heledd Fychan Plaid Cymru 2:35, 11 May 2022

Diolch, Llywydd. A year ago, shortly following my election to the Senedd, and your appointment to your role, I asked how you would ensure a more central role for the arts and culture in the Government of the sixth Senedd, as compared to the fourth and fifth Senedd, and how you planned to tackle the underinvestment that has been seen for over a decade. I'm sure you will recall that I thought, and still do, that your portfolio merits a ministerial post, not just a Deputy Minister post. You responded by noting that you would work alongside the economy Minister to make sure the cultural sector was adequately funded, and that the cultural sector plays a key part in economic recovery. However, since then, I believe that we have seen a sidelining of the cultural portfolio and the cultural sector in Wales by Welsh Government, despite your personal effort. For example, since the Senedd election in 2021, up to 6 May this year, there have been only 46 arts, culture and sport announcements from Welsh Government, of which only two were orally delivered in this Chamber—the fewest of all portfolios, according to an analysis of all announcements and statements. Why is this?