Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stuart Andrew and Susan Elan Jones

Wednesday 13th June 2018 Commons Chamber

[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.