Minister for Economy, Vaughan Gething on the latest labour market statistics

“Today’s figures continue to be encouraging with unemployment in Wales lower than in the previous quarter and remaining below the UK average, but we know there is still uncertainty facing the Welsh economy as a result of the pandemic and the UK’s departure from the EU.

 “We have pulled every lever possible to back Welsh businesses during this incredibly challenging time and we have provided in excess of £2.5bn funding to Welsh firms. This package has complemented and build on the support provided by the UK Government.

 “This targeted approach, focused particularly on backing small businesses and Welsh communities, has helped protect in excess of 160,000 Welsh jobs which might otherwise have been lost.

 “We have also extended our 100% business rate relief package until the end of this financial year, and focused on providing vital skills and training support to workers through our Working Wales service.

 “My priority now, as the Economy Minister, is to ensure the Welsh Government stands ready to kick-start a strong Welsh recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, with the right for support Welsh businesses and workers, so that we build a stronger, greener and more prosperous economy, in a fairer Wales for everyone.

 “Supporting young people is a crucial part of our work to drive Wales’ economic recovery. That’s why we are committed to delivering our Young Person’s Guarantee, which will give everyone under 25 in Wales the offer of work, education, training, or self-employment. It also commits us to creating 125,000 all-age apprenticeships.”