Members of the Senedd debated the Welsh Government’s draft Budget and from my perspective, as Shadow Minister for the Economy and Transport, it was disappointing that Welsh Labour has given no consideration to a roadmap for Wales’ economic recovery

While the limited financial support in this Budget is welcome, it does feel like the Welsh Government has run out of ideas and is just moving financial deckchairs around and hoping for a different outcome.

There is also no admission that the Welsh Labour-led Government has learnt from its mistakes and is going to provide additional financial support to businesses quickly.

Months of uncertainty, last minute decisions and the poor rolling out of government funding has crippled many businesses, especially in our vital hospitality, tourism and leisure sectors.

In order to build back better out of the economic downturn that the pandemic is causing, Wales needs a radical shift in direction.

So what would a Welsh Conservative roadmap for recovery look like, I hear you ask.

First, we believe that any business which was successful in 2019, should be successful in 2021.

We would look to create a £250 million Covid Community Recovery Fund which would be used to help businesses in towns and communities across Wales.

“Business Rate-Free Zones” would be created where all businesses would be free from paying businesses rates for up to three years.

The Welsh Government has also shown no ambition when it comes to investing in key infrastructure projects.

The Budget fails to invest in a reliable road network in Wales which is vital for improving the economic fortunes of our country.

We need a Wales where businesses will be able to grow and create more jobs. Getting more people into work will end the poverty trap and unleash the potential of the abandoned areas of Wales.

Wales needs a clear plan which will unleash Wales’ potential by transforming transport and investing in Wales’ future through a green infrastructure revolution, building jobs in the process.