With so many transport projects to complete and a bleaker economic picture, the Chancellor’s £400 million for Wales over 5 years will do little to secure major infrastructure upgrades

The Chancellor has failed to secure the future for major infrastructure projects across South Wales according to Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney MP Gerald Jones.

In last week’s Autumn Statement the Chancellor pledged an extra £400million to Wales to spend on capital infrastructure over the next five years. But with so many projects still to complete, including the Heads of the Valleys dualling and the ambitious South Wales Metro, more money is needed to develop the infrastructure improvements vital to Wales’ economic recovery.

Gerald highlighted the lack of commitment from the Tory UK government for Wales;

“This announcement confirmed what many have been thinking – that the Government has no ideas to improve life for people in Wales. Following six wasted years, the Government still have nothing new to offer.”

“It seems that Wales is a complete afterthought. The additional £400million to the Welsh Government’s capital budget over 5 years is there because of the Barnett formula and is nothing to do with the influence of the Welsh Office.

“The Government has also today confirmed that next April’s Minimum Wage rise to £7.50 will be 10p an hour lower than they promised last year. The proper Living Wage, as promoted by the Living Wage Foundation, is already £8.45.

“Our communities and local businesses need to see improvements in infrastructure, future prospects and economic performance, but nothing in the autumn statement will deliver that.

“The Secretary of State for Wales should start standing up for the people of Wales so that our needs are addressed.”