The Member of the Welsh Parliament for Aberconwy – Janet Finch-Saunders MS – has today (12 March) written urgently to the First Minister to express her exasperation at the outcome the review announced this afternoon. She has urged for a review of certain decisions, asking that the reasoning behind certain rules be made public.
Commenting on the decision taken over non-essential retail, Janet said:
“Whilst the fact that hairdressers and barbers can reopen by appointment on 15 March is certainly positive, the Welsh Government must make public the scientific evidence which shows that it is reasonable to allow residents to attend a salon to have their hair cut, but not visit a non-essential retail establishment which sells scissors.
“I am astounded that, whilst restrictions on the sale of non-essential items will be lifted in supermarkets, our small and independently owned shops have been left idling. Small and medium sized businesses are the backbone of our economy, and this will be a real kick in the teeth at a time they wish to be empowered to trade.
“To bridge this period, I have asked the Welsh Government to urgently explain why the ERF Sector Specific Grant has been limited to businesses with 10 or more staff. I have also asked for a detailed explanation of whether local authorities will have discretion to award some of the £150 million to businesses which do not have a rateable value."
Among the topics covered in this wide-ranging letter of concern is the ability for families to travel across the region to see loved ones outside, questions over the viability of reopening hospitality ahead of restrictions loosening in England, as well as asking for dates for the reopening of restaurant services.
Janet also raised the issue of the return to schools, stating:
“I am appalled that the First Minister had the audacity to advise that his top priority is to enable as many children and students to return to face-to-face learning as possible. Our children’s educational attainment remains at risk with the digital divide still negatively impacting the ability to learn.
“Clearly, this is not his top priority as many students will not be returning to on-site learning until after the Easter holiday. This strategy requires an urgent rethink, as Welsh Government restrictions mean it will become easier for some teenagers to get a haircut than to receive in-person learning.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
- A copy of Janet’s letter to the First Minister is attached.
Photo: Janet Finch-Saunders MS/AS
