Minister for Economy, Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates on the latest Labour Market Statistics

“At the end of 2019 the unemployment rate in Wales was at a record low so today’s figures clearly show the damage coronavirus has inflicted on Welsh businesses, jobs and our economy in this most challenging of years.

“The Welsh Government has taken proactive action to support our firms and people through these difficult times. Since March we have made available around £2 billion of business support funding, including, most recently, an additional £340m for impacted hospitality, leisure and tourism businesses. This support is helping to protect thousands of businesses in all parts of Wales and has already safeguarded 125,000 Welsh jobs and livelihoods.

“In addition, our new apprenticeship incentives are helping Welsh businesses to recruit apprentices and through our Covid commitment we are pledging to help anyone who needs assistance to find work, education or training or to start their own business. Our new Export Action Plan, launched today, will also be vital in helping our exporting businesses to recover, rebuild and adapt to life outside the EU.

“These are incredibly difficult times, but we are doing all that we can to support businesses and jobs as well as protect people’s health and ultimately save lives.”