Exactly one year ago today (19 March), Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns took his seat at the Cabinet table and outlined his ambitions to create a nation which is more ambitious, confident and more outward looking than ever before.
Since then, the Welsh Secretary has overseen a number of key achievements, including:
Wales Act 2017
The Wales Bill received Royal Assent in January 2017, setting in stone a strong package of powers for Assembly members with stability and accountability at its heart.
Fiscal Framework
A new fiscal framework setting out how the Welsh Government will be funded following the devolution of some taxes represents a significant milestone for Wales. The deal provides secure long-term funding for the Welsh Government and gives Cardiff Bay greater visibility when looking at spending decisions.
Severn Tolls
We have announced proposals to see the prices paid at the Severn Tolls for all vehicles halved following the return to public ownership in 2018.
Mobile coverage
Tackling mobile not-spots was an issue highlighted as a priority when Mr Cairns took office with the message that Wales couldn’t be left behind the rest of the UK. In January the UK Government and Ofcom hosted a summit to find a solution and commitments were made to improve the situation.
Business support
Over 80 companies joined the Welsh Secretary in Cardiff at the inaugural Wales Business Export Summit in March this year. The event connected firms starting out on exporting journeys with the expertise and support of the UK Government.
Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns said:
Over the last 12 months I have had the privilege of experiencing the very best of this country – connecting with every corner of Wales, its culture, its history and its people.
The goals we have achieved take us one step closer to achieving this Government’s mission to build a country that works for everyone.
But there is still work to be done. As we prepare to live through one of the most important moments in our country’s history, I will not waste a second in getting on with the job. I will provide the leadership to make sure that Wales is in the strongest possible position to prosper when we leave the European Union, to support jobs and growth and to make sure that the UK Government continues to deliver for the people of Wales.
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