8. Welsh Conservatives Debate: The transport network

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:01 pm on 22 June 2022.

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Photo of Peter Fox Peter Fox Conservative 5:01, 22 June 2022

I feel I've got the poisoned chalice in trying to round this into some sort of conclusion. May I first, though, start by thanking everybody who contributed to this emotive debate? It is important for everyone, because at the heart of this debate today is a question I think all of us in the Chamber and, indeed, people across the country, have a keen interest in: what does a modern transport system in Wales that meets the needs of the communities look like? We've heard several perspectives on things today, and I thank Natasha for opening the debate so forcefully, pointing out that the network here is not fit for purpose, that Welsh Labour are letting us down and our people down, and they're letting the economy down, not listening to the freight lobby that are so dependent on our road structure. She highlighted those many projects that have been frozen, which are locking up our economy further now. Now, we know there is no silver bullet to address all of these things, and it does need a big programme of work between us. We have a wonderful country, which needs connecting, and connecting well.

Delyth Jewell pointed out very clearly in her opening statement that the transport network is not fit for purpose, and we agree with you, Delyth, and that's the premise of the debate today. I know your focus was on rail infrastructure, but there is so much more to the transport network than just rail. As Sam pointed out very clearly, there are poor opportunities in our rural communities. He pointed out the irony of the Welsh narrative against what's really on offer in rural communities, and highlighted those transport failures in his constituency.

Carolyn and Rhianon, I won't dwell too much on your contributions, because they were very much focused in one area and, I think, demonstrated your lack of understanding of the wider strategic issues facing the rural communities across Wales, because it's not all one-dimensional. You have to think about the other wider part of our community, the rural communities, which make up such a mass of our Welsh country. 

Gareth, you pointed out the major concerns in the Vale of Clwyd, and you raised that earlier today and you pointed out the poor access to public transport and reiterated the issues—