Queen’s Speech Statement by RT Davies

Commenting on today’s Queen’s Speech, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies, said:

“Today the Queen delivered a One Nation Queen’s speech from a One Nation Conservative Government.

“With the UK economy strengthening, this was a clear sign that Conservatives in government are now able to switch focus on to an ambitious programme to deliver for hardworking people.

“It is now vital that the Welsh Government takes similar steps to ensure that Welsh families and businesses share in the rising prosperity.

“In particular, the UK Government has announced plans for the dramatic devolution of power to local areas and I would welcome any adoption of the localism agenda here in Wales. So too reform of the planning system, which in England is set to help the government to build more homes.

“Finally, the UK Government has taken a dynamic and decisive approach to ensuring that the UK becomes a world leader in the digital economy with new obligations placed on broadband providers to make sure that everyone has access to an affordable high speed internet connection.”

Commenting on the inclusion of the Wales Bill in today’s Queen’s Speech, he added:

“I welcome the news that the UK Government will continue to work in co-operation with the Welsh Government, building on the work of the former Secretary of State’s efforts to secure a strong and lasting devolution settlement in Wales.

“When the former Secretary of State pressed the pause button on the process it allowed all interested parties an opportunity to reflect on the type devolution that they want to see, but we must now get on with the job.

“The public will not thank politicians for spending the next four years navel-gazing over constitutional issues. It is vital that the Welsh Government and opposition parties engage positively and constructively with the new Secretary of State to take the Wales Bill forward.”