Oral Answers to Questions

Andrew Bowie Excerpts

Wednesday 4th September 2019 Commons Chamber

[Alun Cairns]

Our record supporting rural Wales and the rural economy across the whole of the UK is strong. It compares favourably with the hon. Gentleman’s performance. I hardly saw him as the champion of Welsh agriculture in the past.

[Andrew Bowie (West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine) (Con)]

7. What recent discussions he has had with the Welsh Government on planning for the UK leaving the EU without a deal.

[The Secretary of State for Wales (Alun Cairns)]

I have regular discussions with Welsh Government Ministers on a range of issues, including preparations for leaving the EU. Within days of the Prime Minister’s appointment at the end of July, the Prime Minister and I met the First Minister in Cardiff. Naturally our departure from the EU was central to these discussions.

[Andrew Bowie]

I thank my right hon. Friend for that answer. There are some concerns that the devolved Administrations might not be as ready as this Government for a no-deal exit. Can he confirm that this Government are doing all they can to ensure that the entire UK is ready to leave, come what may, on 31 October?