Welsh Secretary accused of being ‘misleading’ about ‘cash injection’ figures

The Welsh Secretary has been accused of being “misleading” about an “injection” of cash into Wales’ green tech sector.

Simon Hart was criticised by former Welsh Government minister Alun Davies about his comments on the TK Government’s “plan for Wales”.

Hart suggested that the UK Government has announced £166 million, and created 60,000 jobs, and said that this was “fantastic news for Welsh communities”.

But Alun Davies replied that the £166m and the 60,000 jobs are across the whole of the UK.

According to the UK Government, the funding that has been announced will develop technologies in carbon capture, greenhouse gas removal and hydrogen, while also helping find solutions to decarbonise the UK’s polluting sectors including manufacturing, steel, energy and waste.

It says it will help benefit energy-intensive businesses like Tate & Lyle, BAE Systems and Celsa Manufacturing,

‘Jobs in Wales’ 

Simon Hart said: “Last week I introduced the UK Gov plan for jobs in Wales. Less than 1 week later we’ve announced a £166 million cash injection for green tech, creating 60,000 jobs.

“Fantastic news for Welsh communities like Pwllpeiran & Glascoed & their successful projects”.

Alun Davies replied: “This is another misleading tweet. The £166m and 60k jobs are across the whole UK. It’s time to disaggregate these numbers and to tell the truth.”

Energy Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan said: “We are determined to tackle climate change and make it win-win for both our planet and our economy.

“Today’s major cash boost – targeted at our most polluting industries – will encourage the rapid development of the technologies we need to reign in our emissions and transition to a green economy, one that reduces costs for business, boosts investment and create jobs.

“Just 6 months ago, the Prime Minister set out a clear 10 Point Plan for creating and supporting up to 250,000 British jobs as we level up and build back greener from the pandemic.

“Today we’re boosting our armoury for the fight against climate change and backing innovators and businesses to create green jobs right across the United Kingdom.”