The First Minister has admitted financial support for businesses from the Welsh Labour Government is currently at ‘a low level’.
When challenged by the Acting Leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Assembly, Paul Davies AM (pictured), Carwyn Jones could not give an exact figure for financial support under the Economic Renewal Programme (ERP).
During First Minister’s Questions, Mr Jones suggested a low level of support should not be unexpected as the ERP – introduced last July – has not been running for a long period.
Mr Davies said: “This flagship scheme has been going for 11 months.
“It has given – and this was clearly news to the First Minister – £47, 136 to Welsh businesses. All of that was allocated after March this year. Compared to what is desperately needed, that’s peanuts.
“There are thousands and thousands of businesses out there who need help. We should be giving them as much aid as possible during these difficult times.
“Instead – the Welsh Labour Government continues its lethargic approach.
“At least today, we have finally had confirmation that the Economic Renewal Programme will continue, presumably in its current form. That announcement – under pressure in the Senedd – has taken six weeks.
“Maybe now – finally – Labour will get this department working properly. For the sake of the economy. And for the sake of Welsh business.”
