Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Jones and David Mowat

Wednesday 9th July 2014 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jones]

It is indeed, and it also illustrates the extent to which border communities such as those that my hon. Friend represents rely on health care provided in England—all the more reason for proper protocols to be put in place to ensure that that health care is adequate.

[David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con)]

5. What the time scale is for the construction of a new nuclear power station at Wylfa.

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

Subject to final investment decisions, construction is expected to begin in late 2019. However, initial ground works have already begun and indications are that Wylfa Newydd remains on course to begin operating in the mid-2020s.

[David Mowat]

The Secretary of State may be aware that Wylfa will generate 10 times as much carbon-free electricity as is currently generated by every offshore and onshore wind farm in Wales. Does he agree that it is vital that we make progress on that project?

[Mr Jones]

I agree entirely, and that is why the generic design assessment for Wylfa Newydd is proceeding apace. We need an energy mix, and we need to ensure that fewer carbon emissions are produced. A mixture of nuclear and wind power will achieve that.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Jones and David Mowat

Wednesday 18th January 2012 Commons Chamber

[David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con)]

10. What recent discussions she has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the funding formula for Wales.

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

My right hon. Friend and I have regular discussions with my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer on issues affecting Wales.

[David Mowat]

The Under-Secretary will know that the English regions and Wales lose out because the block grant allocation is based not on need but on Barnett. In the case of Wales, the loss is about £300 million a year. What indication can the Government give us that there will be reform?

[Mr Jones]

Governments of all political complexions have recognised for many years the need for some parts of the UK to be funded differently from others. Concerns have, of course, been expressed about the Barnett formula, but the priority now is to reduce the deficit, and any changes to the system must happen once the public finances have been stabilised.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between David Jones and David Mowat

Wednesday 16th March 2011 Commons Chamber

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

My right hon. Friend and I receive regular representations in relation to the block grant settlement for the Welsh Assembly.

[David Mowat]

I thank the Minister for that reply. In 2009, the Holtham commission concluded that the Barnett formula was no longer fit for purpose and was in need of urgent reform. Does the Minister agree that the Barnett formula should be replaced with a mechanism based on need?

[Mr Jones]

It is fair to say that everyone recognises that the Barnett formula is nearing the end of its life. However, it is necessary to stabilise the public finances before we consider the formula. In the wake of the vote in the Welsh referendum, the coalition will establish a Calman-like process for the funding of the Welsh Assembly.