Schemes to tackle Wales broadband coverage

THE Welsh Government has this week announced a range of measures to extend broadband coverage in Wales following the end of Superfast Cymru.

These include a new rollout scheme that is out for tender, a review and continuation of the current voucher schemes for those without access to superfast broadband, and ongoing work to develop a parallel community focused scheme.

Cabinet Secretary for Finance Mark Drakeford has announced that a research project aimed at growing the aquaculture sector has been given £1.4m in EU funding. The project will involve Swansea University’s Centre for Sustainable Aquatic Research working with Welsh businesses to develop products and services.

The Welsh Government has launched its paper on post-Brexit trade, which argues that the Welsh economy is best protected by retaining full access to the European single market and membership of the customs union. The paper suggests that under WTO rules, the Welsh economy could shrink by 8-10%. It calls on the UK Government to provide evidence of how new agreements could replace the UK’s current trading relationship with the EU. Launching the paper in Cwmbran, First Minister Carwyn Jones said moving to WTO rules could have a “catastrophic impact” on the Welsh Lamb and shellfish industries.

UK Cabinet Office Minister David Lidington has expressed optimism that things are moving forward following talks with the First Minister aimed at allaying Welsh fears of a power grab by Westminster after Brexit. Ministers in Westminster are now promising to change the bill during its passage through the House of Lords.

Looking forward, Economy Secretary Ken Skates will take questions from AMs in the Senedd next week and there will be a Plaid Cymru debate on the need to give the Assembly a vote on the proposed M4 relief road.

Finally, Welsh Government Permanent Secretary Shan Morgan will appear before the Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee on Monday, as it scrutinises the Welsh Government’s initial funding of the Circuit of Wales Project. Newly appointed Director General for Economy, Skills and Natural Resources Andrew Slade will also give evidence to AMs, along with Andrew Jeffreys, Director of the Welsh Government Treasury.