Like you, recent announcements by the Welsh and UK governments on the way forward out of the Coronavirus pandemic brought so much needed optimism. It’s great news that our tourism sector looks to have the chance to reopen in a limited way for Easter but I want to make sure there is no disconnect between Wales and England as there has been during the outbreak. Brecon and Radnorshire businesses rely on tourism from England so providing virus transmission rates are sufficiently low, I very much hope we will be able to welcome a small number of our visitors back from across the border.
What doesn’t help is “radio silence” from the Welsh Government. Not my words, but the words of the Federation of Small Businesses who argue that businesses are not hearing from the Welsh Government. Every single day, local businesses tell me of the bleak financial situation they face. Every day I have to respond explaining that business support is devolved to the Welsh Government, and there are no signs that the Welsh Government is going to provide any more support.
This is particularly sad considering that the Welsh Government has had almost six billion pounds from the UK Government during the pandemic. Last week, a further £650 million was announced. With so many businesses struggling, and so many jobs in Brecon and Radnorshire at risk, I want to see the rural economy prioritised for once. It would be awful if the money was held onto until mid April and then handed to businesses and in Labour heartlands….just before the Senedd elections.
In the last ten years, Powys County Council has received one of the lowest local authority allocations in Wales. This funding shortfall is leading to some difficult decisions. I deeply regret plans to close rural schools such as Llanfihangel Rhydithon (Dolau). I’ve asked the Council to pause on these plans until parents and governors can have the chance to scrutinise the proposals and discuss the idea in person. If the Welsh Government provided a ‘rural top up’ – recognising that we have been bottom of the list for some time, these closures could be avoided.
It feels as though we are turning the corner. The daffodils, usually the first sign of Spring, are poking through and there is hope and optimism in the wind. I hope you stay safe and I look forward to meeting you in a few months – with this virus behind us.
