Latest ONS statistics have shown Wales is the only UK nation that has seen its economy shrink. The third quarter of 2021 saw GDP in Wales decline by 0.3% on the previous three months. It grew in England by 0.6%, 0.9% in Scotland, and 1.4% in Northern Ireland.
Commenting, Welsh Conservative and Shadow Economy Minister Paul Davies MS said:
“While there will be a strong economic test for the UK and the West as a whole this year – caused by increased global demand for energy, the war in Ukraine, and the fallout from Covid – it is disappointing that Wales will face it in a weak position.
“These figures don’t just show Wales being outperformed by the rest of our United Kingdom, but we actually went backwards while the rest of the country grew.
“This is the consequence of a Labour Government that neither understands nor cares for private businesses and entrepreneurs.
“No wonder average weekly wages are £60 lower than in Scotland when the Labour Government prioritise pet projects like more politicians ahead of improving the life-chances of the people of Wales.”
