Ahead of fourth quarter GDP figures, published on today (Tuesday), the Party of Wales has called for an economic recovery that benefits the whole of the UK.
Plaid Cymru warns that economic inequality means that growth isn’t being felt equally across the UK, and called for action to help Wales reach its potential through creating more and better paid work.
Despite the overall unemployment level falling, figures show that economic inequality remains a problem, with an unprecedented gap between the richest and poorest, both geographically and socially.
The Party of Wales Shadow Economy Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth said that Plaid Cymru plans to create 50,000 jobs through better procurement practice, by supporting small businessess across Wales and rebalancing the economy towards manufacturing and industry would close the economic gap by ensuring quality, well-paid jobs.
The Party of Wales Shadow Economy Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth said:
“The general UK economic situation is improving, and more and more people are finding work than in recent years. However, we need to ensure that everyone feels the benefits of this improvement.
“At the moment, underemployment is still too high, as is the number of zero-hours contracts, meaning that too many people are prevented from making the economic contribution they are capable of.
“Everyone in Wales should benefit from the economic upturn, and wealth should be distributed more fairly.
“We do that by focusing on job creation across the nation. Plaid Cymru’s plans to help create up to 50,000 jobs across Wales by using our purchasing power better will be a driver for creating jobs all parts of Wales. We also want to help businesses train and retain staff by helping them with their business rates and increasing the number of quality apprenticeships and skills training opportunities.
“Giving real job-creating powers to the Welsh Government would also mean that we in Wales could take responsibility for our economic performance.
“Wales’ economy has great potential but it hasn’t always had the right support: we’re worth more than this.
“That’s why Plaid Cymru wants to secure an economic recovery for all.”
