Mr. Alan WilliamsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales, pursuant to the speech made by the hon. Member for Neath (Mr. Hain) to the Institute for Public Policy Research in Cardiff, what evidence there is to support his contention that the Welsh economy will be badly hit and thousands of jobs will disappear in the absence of a yes vote in the referendum. [2535]
§ Mr. Ron DaviesThe global market for inward investment on which Wales relies so heavily is becoming intensely competitive. Ten years ago there were only three Development Agencies actively operating in Japan; today there are 88 from Europe alone. In this climate, the economic development of Wales needs the clear leadership and dedicated attention to local priorities that can best be provided by an elected Assembly.
§ Mr. Ieuan Wyn JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) what proportion funding for the visual arts is work of artists working and living in Wales; [3015]
62W(2) what steps the Wales Arts Council is taking to ensure that galleries in Wales exhibit the works of artists living and working in the locality in which galleries are located. [3016]
§ Mr. Ron DaviesThese are operational matters for the Arts Council and I will ask the Chief Executive to write to the hon. Member with the information requested. A copy of this letter will be placed in the Library of the House.