Despite challenging conditions, over the last six years, South Wales West has proven to be an attractive location for foreign investment and has secured just under a third of all new jobs created in Wales.  

Through Digital Communities Wales we are working in partnership with healthcare organisations in Islwyn to support more people to improve their well-being through engaging with technology. A £6 million three-year digital inclusion and health programme, to commence in July next year, will build on this important work across Wales.

The Welsh Government supports the prudent use of antibiotics and we have worked closely with Public Health Wales to set the strategic direction on antimicrobial resistance and tackle the factors causing AMR across the health and social care system.

Recycling services in Wales are amongst the best in the world. Wales has the third-highest household recycling rate in the world. This is leading to inward investment and jobs in the circular economy. Local authorities are on course to meet future statutory recycling targets with all the associated benefits.

Ministers continue to strongly make the case for a Brexit that protects the interests of Wales at every opportunity.  In recent weeks these have included bilateral ministerial phone calls, a ministerial forum, and the British-Irish Council. A Joint Ministerial Committee (European negotiations) will take place later today.

We announced in October proposals to introduce Welsh rates of income tax in 2019-20 at existing rates, supporting an orderly transition to these new tax responsibilities. Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs will continue to collect income tax.  All taxpayers in Wales will receive a letter in the coming month to confirm the new arrangements.