Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Wales Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Chris Evans Excerpts
Wednesday 16th September 2015

(9 years, 3 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Alun Cairns Portrait Alun Cairns
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I am grateful to my hon. Friend for reminding us of the importance of the NATO summit that the last Government took to Wales. That not only allowed us to promote Wales around the globe, but was an important step towards the commitment that 2% of GDP would be spent on defence.

Chris Evans Portrait Chris Evans (Islwyn) (Lab/Co-op)
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10. Given all the Government schemes to encourage tourism in Wales, does the Minister think it is fair that people who want to visit Wales are thumped with a toll of £6.50 on the Severn bridge? What will he do to stop that tax on tourism?

Alun Cairns Portrait Alun Cairns
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I am aware of the hon. Gentleman’s interest in the Severn toll, as well as that of many Members from all parties across the House. The law has been in place for decades, but the concession will end in 2017 or 2018, depending on traffic volumes. That gives us the opportunity to bring innovations to the crossing, and my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has already made significant moves in this area.