Wales

Debate between Lord Davies of Gower and Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent

Tuesday 26th November 2024 Lords Chamber

[Lord Davies of Gower]

To ask His Majesty’s Government what steps they are taking to strengthen the position of Wales within the United Kingdom.

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

My Lords, I start by paying tribute to the emergency services and local authority staff across Wales and the rest of the UK, who have worked tirelessly to keep us safe during Storm Bert. We will continue to support those who have been affected by the storm. Our efforts are focused on them, and our thoughts and prayers are with those who are grieving the loss of loved ones.

The Government have reset the relationship with the Welsh Government, based on respect, co-operation and delivery. My right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Wales is driving forward the partnership, meeting regularly with the First Minister of Wales to discuss key areas of joint work. This is already delivering better results for people in Wales, with last month’s Budget providing a record boost for the Welsh Government to support vital public services, including the NHS.

[Lord Davies of Gower (Con)]

My Lords, having witnessed the terrible storms in Wales, I, too, thank the emergency services for the services they have provided. Recognising the need to enhance Welsh infrastructure, the last Government allocated £1 billion for the electrification of the north Wales main line, but Ministers in this Government have consistently refused to commit to this project since July. Can the Minister give the House a cast-iron assurance today that the north Wales main line electrification will be delivered in full?

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

My Lords, I thank the noble Lord for his question, but I am somewhat surprised, given that the previous Government cancelled the electrification to Swansea, that he is asking it. As for future infrastructure projects, we will update the House in due course.