6. Welsh Conservatives Debate: Free ports

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:49 pm on 8 February 2023.

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Photo of Natasha Asghar Natasha Asghar Conservative 4:49, 8 February 2023

No. [Laughter.] And since being a Member, I've had an immeasurable number of meetings and attended incalculable events with individuals, groups and organisations across Wales on their plight to get their bid approved and I must say that they've all been very impressive.

I was delighted to hear that three exceptional Welsh free-port bids have been submitted and it's fantastic news for the country, with each presenting major benefits. It might sound a bit biased, but, as a regional Member for South Wales East, I'm sure no-one here will be surprised to know that I do have a soft spot for Newport's bid. Intricate details have been kept under wraps, but, from what I know, Newport's bid encompasses a string of underdeveloped employment sites across the region, including the Welsh Government-owned Cardiff Airport. Well, let's be honest, it needs all the help it can get. The bid, being led by Newport City Council, would, if successful, help entice more national and international business to the area, which will, in turn, mean thousands more jobs and training opportunities, not just for Newport residents, but people all across south-east Wales.

I know my colleagues Samuel Kurtz and Paul Davies have the same level of enthusiasm and dedication for the Celtic free-port bid in their patch, which would create some 16,000 high-quality jobs—green jobs, in fact—and see some £5.5 billion-worth of new investment. Having met with the group behind the Celtic free-port bid, and having seen their presentation, it was clear to me within minutes that they have some truly wonderful plans in place that will greatly benefit local residents and enterprise.

I've also had countless conversations and worked with my colleague Virginia Crosbie, MP for Ynys Môn, who has been singing from the rooftops for the Anglesey free-port bid from day one—now, more than anyone else I've seen, particularly on this subject. I would say that the Anglesey free-port bid would attract £1 billion in investment and create up to 13,000 new highly paid jobs on the island, so, believe me when I say I know only too well just how passionate all of my colleagues are when it comes to creating free ports in their areas.

In this post-Brexit era, free ports can play a pivotal role for the UK, as our Prime Minister Rishi Sunak outlined recently. He actually said, and I quote:

'Foreign Trade Zones are flourishing all around the world—except in the EU. Post-Brexit they could play an important role in signalling Britain’s openness to the world, as well as reconnecting the nation with its proud maritime history.'

The Prime Minister has gone on to say also what my colleague Paul Davies had said in his opening, that free ports would come with numerous benefits such as 'simpler planning',

'cheaper customs—with favourable tariffs, VAT or duties', and lower taxes as well, and, I quote,

'tax breaks to encourage construction, private investment and job creation', something that we all want in Wales. There's no denying that all three bids are impressive and would deliver truly remarkable benefits to Wales.

The UK Government has committed £26 million to create a free port in Wales, and I am pleased to see that Ministers here in Wales and in London are not just talking the talk, but they're also walking the walk, by working together to actually make this a reality. I am particularly pleased to hear that a second free port could be on the cards if a truly exceptional proposal is put forward, something emphasised to me when I met with the then levelling-up Secretary Michael Gove, and it's a message I've shared with all bidders that I've met to date.

Personally, I'll continue to beat the drum for two free ports to be created in Wales, because they will no doubt be a real shot in the arm for the Welsh economy and bring countless benefits to us all. I sincerely hope the Welsh Government will continue to work closely with the UK Government and collaborate effectively to deliver these exciting proposals, which will undoubtedly bring outstanding economic benefits to Wales. Deputy Presiding Officer, I am genuinely keeping both of my fingers crossed for two free ports here in Wales, and, just like all of my colleagues from all corners of Wales, look forward to hearing the free-port announcement being made soon.