§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the prospects for further inward investment in Wales. [51212]
§ Mr. HainOur track record on inward investment is excellent. Over 300 overseas-owned manufacturing companies employing over 75,000 people in a range of industries including aerospace, consumer and office electronics, automotive components, chemicals and pharmaceuticals. These companies have been attracted by 265W a number of factors, not least the quality of the workforce, high levels of productivity, a sound infrastructure and the assistance offered by the organisations involved.
The establishment of the National Assembly will strengthen Wales' ability to provide the right environment in which companies can succeed and prosper. Despite increasing competition for inward investment, the prospects for Wales remain good.