§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement concerning the impact of the European single market on the Welsh economy.
§ Mr. David HuntThe impact of the single market programme on the Welsh economy will depend on how individual firms respond to the challenges and opportunities which the removal of trade barriers will create. Few firms, even those whose markets are predominantly local, will remain unaffected by some part of the single market programme. To help meet this challenge, the Government have provided the most comprehensive single market information service anywhere in the Community. In Wales, programmes such as Euroline, Interprise and the partnerships which are being developed with other regions of the Community, such as Baden Wurttemberg, also enhance the opportunities available to companies and both my Department and the Welsh Development Agency make every effort to encourage Welsh companies to take advantage of what is on offer.