Welsh Lib Dems plan to build a new, green economy (Kirsty Williams AM )

Cymraeg
English

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

Welsh Lib Dems plan to build a new, green economy

September 29, 2009 12:00 AM

Welsh Liberal Democrats have today launched a radical consultation document on how Wales can develop a new, green economy ahead of the party's Autumn Conference in October.

The document will be sent to members and stakeholders in the next few days in order to make sure that people from across Wales have the opportunity to contribute to developing the radical ideas needed to ensure that Wales has an economy fit for the future.

The paper outlines areas where political will could help develop an economy that is both financially and environmentally sustainable. These areas are:

· Infrastructure, Renewable Energy and Public Transport

· Green Jobs

· Housing and Building Regulations

· Local Economic Development

· Governance

Kirsty Williams, leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats said:

"Far too much of the political debate is looking at how we can return to the economic climate of the last few years. But I do not believe that that is what we should be aiming for.

"The Welsh economy was struggling even before this recession, especially due to high amounts of personal debt and a lack of private sector investment. We also cannot ignore the fact that climate change has the potential to change Wales for the worse.

"Wales has the potential to establish itself as a world leader in developing cutting edge green technologies. We should make the most of this opportunity now, before it is too late. We also have the chance soon to make sure that all new buildings in Wales are environmentally friendly.

"These plans are the beginning of the process that will establish the Welsh Liberal Democrats as the leading thinkers in the debate about how we want our economy to look after the recession, and what we can do to tackle radical climate change.

"I am glad that my party has the vision to discuss these important ideas, which are vital for the future of our country."