Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Amess and David Jones

Wednesday 14th May 2014 Commons Chamber

[Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con)]

1. What assessment he has made of the potential effects of the measures in the 2014 Budget on businesses in Wales.

[The Secretary of State for Wales (Mr David Jones)]

The Budget represents the next step in our long-term economic plan with a package of measures to deliver economic security for businesses and people in Wales and across the UK.

[Mr Amess]

I hope that this is not too difficult a question for my right hon. Friend, but does he agree with my Welsh relatives that the best way to help businesses is to reduce taxation?

[Mr Jones]

My hon. Friend is entirely right, which is why we have reduced the rate of corporation tax from 28p in the pound to 21p, with a further reduction to 20% next year. For similar reasons, the Wales Bill makes provision for the Welsh Assembly to call a referendum on a lower rate of taxation for Wales, and I hope that it will seize that opportunity.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Amess and David Jones

Wednesday 16th January 2013 Commons Chamber

[Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con)]

2. What recent assessment he has made of the defence industry in Wales; and if he will make a statement.

[The Secretary of State for Wales (Mr David Jones)]

The defence industry is a significant contributor to Wales and the UK’s economy, contributing more than £22 billion of annual revenues, of which £5.4 billion is from exports. Companies such as General Dynamics, EADS and BAE Systems ensure that the defence industry makes a vital contribution to the economy in Wales.

[Mr Amess]

Notwithstanding attempts to try to intimidate me not to attend Welsh questions, will my right hon. Friend tell me what representations he has received on the research and development of General Dynamics?

[Mr Jones]

I am always extremely grateful—as I am sure the entire House is—to see my hon. Friend take such an interest in Welsh matters. In November I visited EDGE UK, which is part of General Dynamics, and I was tremendously impressed with its exciting research and development programme. It is an excellent example of a part of the defence industry that is benefitting Wales hugely.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Amess and David Jones

Wednesday 8th December 2010 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jones]

I am sorry to hear of the predicament of the hon. Lady’s constituent. If she writes to me, I will pursue the matter further.

[Mr David Amess (Southend West) (Con)]

8. What recent discussions she has had with the First Minister on the proposed referendum on law-making powers for the National Assembly for Wales.