Ken Skates meets Anchor Companies to deliver strong message of support and reassurance.
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Wales is very much open for business and the Welsh Government is committed to supporting business growth and investment – this is the strong message of reassurance from Economy Cabinet Secretary Ken Skates ahead of meeting key companies this week.
The Cabinet Secretary is attending Anchor Company Forum meetings in North Wales (Wrexham on 2 August*) and South Wales (Cardiff on 4 August*) to talk to the companies, listen to any concerns following the EU referendum result, discuss new opportunities and how Welsh Government can support them.
The Cabinet Secretary said:
“Last week we announced a business confidence plan and a new Growth and Prosperity Fund to help Welsh SMEs invest with confidence. This week I will be meeting some of the major businesses operating in Wales that make a significant contribution to the Welsh economy in terms of investment and jobs.
“Many of these companies are part of multi national organisations and I want to reassure both Welsh and International Operations the Welsh Government remains pro-business and that we will continue to work closely with them to create growth and prosperity.
“The EU Referendum has created uncertainty but what remains certain is that Wales is open for business and the Welsh Government is here to support business - that’s the message I want these companies to take back to their Boards.”
Mr Skates also announced the Welsh Government has launched a European hotline to help businesses across Wales access the support available to bridge any uncertainty, plan for the future and maximise opportunities.
“There is a wish for clarity from businesses of all sizes in Wales following the vote to leave but also an emerging focus on where businesses can mitigate risk by targeting export, efficiency and expansion investment. I am actively listening to those concerns and targeting the support we can offer to ensure Wales based businesses are best placed to deal with both the impact and opportunities that will come.
“We have put in place a wide range of support to build confidence and help businesses exploit opportunities. Our European Helpline will provide trade support for customers and suppliers while the Business Wales site will have a dedicated EU section containing advice, support assistance, FAQs and links to other sources of advice.”
Nick Speed, Head of Public Affairs, British Gas, Wales said:
“While the UK’s vote to leave the EU has created some uncertainty, we believe the direct impacts are limited in the short term. We continue to engage constructively with the Welsh Government for the benefit of our customers. We are looking to grow our business in Wales, working together with the Welsh Government to deliver energy efficiency and local energy generation projects.”
For EU exit related issues companies can contact the hotline 03000 6 03000 or drop a line via the Business Wales website (external link).