AM welcomes economic summit but calls for more and faster action (Kirsty Williams AM )

Cymraeg
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Kirsty Williams AM <info@kirstywilliams.org.uk>

AM welcomes economic summit but calls for more and faster action

October 21, 2008 5:00 PM

Kirsty Williams, Welsh Liberal Democrat spokesperson for the Economy, has welcomed the Welsh Assembly Government's announcement following last week's Economic Summit but has called for a stronger voice from Wales in Westminster and more and faster action.

Kirsty said:" Whilst I welcome the WAG's commitment to work closely with the UK Government and with the opposition parties I am anxious that such communication translates into concrete action.

"WAG may indeed be limited by the levers at their disposal but action both at a UK and Wales level has to date been continuously slow and always one step behind the Liberal Democrats' warnings and recommendations - be it the Mortgage Rescue Scheme or wider access to Home Energy Efficiency Scheme grants.

"I am calling upon WAG to lobby the Westminster Government for deeper cuts in interest rates, tighter laws on repossessions; tax cuts for those on low and middle incomes and a significant overhaul of the regulations governing the banking system and a closing of tax loopholes for the rich.

"The UK Government has pledged to pay suppliers across the public sector within 10 days, however the WAG has only pledged to do so in 15 and I hope that they will seek to match the 10 day target.

"Now is the time to invest further in business rates for smaller businesses - to help those struggling with overheads and work to keep those near the bottom line afloat. WAG must also refocus investment programmes to ensure that projects continue to move forward and stimulate economic growth.

"WAG's long term goals must not be overshadowed by current circumstances and investment in the skills agenda must continue to be a priority so that our future economy and society does not pay the consequence."