Make Wales an enterprise zone, says ACE

The ACE argues that Wales needs special treatment because its economic output, per capita, lags England by 25%.  Wales accounts for approximately 3.6% of total UK economic output despite having around 5% of the population.

Wales’ share of the UK’s total economic output has declined since the late 1980s.  Three of the five areas with the lowest per-head output in the UK are in Wales: Central Valleys, Gwent Valleys and Anglesey.  Economic output per capita in these areas is less than 60% of the UK total, the ACE says.

ACE Wales Group chairman Stephen Lawrence said: “Economically, Wales clearly punches below its weight.  Creating a similar status to the government’s economic zones for Wales will help to generate extra economic activity, long-term jobs, and to secure investment in key infrastructure.

“Wales has the opportunity to become a real economic force, with all the benefits to society that come with it.  The business community is keen to work with the Assembly Government to deliver more for Wales.”

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