Finance Minister Rebecca Evans has welcomed the measures set out today by the Chancellor for a new Job Support Scheme, but warns that the scheme falls short on much needed training investment and measures to help job creation.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The Minister also expressed her disappointment at the lack of extra support for some of Wales’ hardest hit sectors, such as steel and aerospace and warned that for some workers facing redundancy this scheme is too little, too late.
Finance Minister Rebecca Evans said:
“After pressing for further wage subsidy support, I welcome the Job Support Scheme but I am concerned that it is not coupled with new training investment that will be essential to protecting livelihoods in the long term.
“Whilst the eleventh hour measures announced by the Chancellor today prevents the worst consequences of a furlough cliff edge, more needs to be done to help unemployed workers find new jobs and incentivise employers to hire new workers. For some workers this announcement is simply too late.
Economy Minister Ken Skates said:
“While the wage subsidy is a welcome development, we have been calling for sector specific support and today’s announcement does nothing to provide that.
“Our aerospace sector, for example, which is absolutely crucial to both the Welsh and UK economy and livelihoods of thousands of people, is in need of targeted assistance and today many jobs are still at great risk when the Chancellor had a real opportunity to provide the security needed.
“It’s also disappointing that this does not deliver for workers and businesses when it comes to training and improving skills. It’s clear that workers who need that help the most will lose out in the long term.