Oral Answers to Questions

Gill German Excerpts

Wednesday 11th September 2024 Commons Chamber

[Nick Smith (Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney) (Lab)]

1. What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on support for clean energy projects in Wales.

[Gill German (Clwyd North) (Lab)]

7. What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on support for clean energy projects in Wales.

[Bill Esterson (Sefton Central) (Lab)]

9. What recent discussions she has had with Cabinet colleagues on support for clean energy projects in Wales.

--- Later in debate ---

[Jo Stevens]

I am delighted that seven Welsh tidal, solar and offshore wind projects were successful in securing contracts in the Government’s main scheme for supporting low-carbon electricity generation. Those projects will support the Government’s mission to deliver clean power by 2030, as well as creating high-quality green jobs and attracting private investment. I look forward to further Welsh projects coming through in future rounds.

[Gill German]

I thank my right hon. Friend for her answer; I am delighted to see her in her place. I am pleased to say that the development of the skills needed for such projects is well under way in Clwyd North. Creating Enterprise in Rhyl works with local social housing providers to develop energy-efficient housing solutions, and has partnered with Rhyl College to train local people in renewable energy, green heating and solar technologies, giving them the key skills needed for the green energy sector, and us the local trained workforce that we need. Does my right hon. Friend agree that green energy offers huge growth and employment potential for areas such as Clwyd North, and will she join me on a visit to Creating Enterprise the next time she is back home in north Wales?

[Jo Stevens]

I congratulate my hon. Friend on winning her seat. The Government have a clear mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower by investing in home-grown energy to grow the economy, create jobs, boost skills and strengthen our energy independence. In Wales, we have the resources and skills to be a leader in cutting-edge energy technologies, creating high-quality jobs right across the country, including in north Wales. It would be a pleasure to visit Creating Enterprise with my hon. Friend.