Oral Answers to Questions

Susan Elan Jones Excerpts

Wednesday 13th June 2018 Commons Chamber

[Alun Cairns]

We had a series of questions on the Swansea Bay tidal lagoon earlier, and we said that the project should only go ahead—I would really like it to go ahead—if it represents good value for money for the taxpayer. The hon. Lady notes the amount of steel that would be needed, but that is less than a month’s output for a major steel plant. The project has an important procurement role, but it should not be overstated.

[Susan Elan Jones (Clwyd South) (Lab)]

10. What recent discussions he has had with the north Wales economic ambition board on the progress of the north Wales growth deal.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Stuart Andrew)]

I am meeting the leaders of the growth board later today to discuss the progress they are making towards a deal, and last week my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State met members of the CBI in north Wales to hear what business needs. I remain committed to securing a deal, but it must deliver a step change in economic activity.

[Susan Elan Jones]

North Wales has a thriving voluntary sector and some excellent social enterprises. What engagement are Ministers in the Wales Office having with them?

[Stuart Andrew]

The hon. Lady might be interested to know that I have met every single council leader in north Wales—I had a particularly good conversation with the leader of Conwy Council about this issue—and I am encouraging them to involve the sector in the growth deal bid.