Productivity Week panel event brings cross-party debate on Welsh Economy

Constructive debate on economic priorities

Framed as a “constructive, policy-focused discussion,” the panel emphasised practical delivery and real-world impact. Core themes included economic growth, skills development, investment, innovation, and the broader business environment.

Opening remarks highlighted both shared concerns and clear ideological differences. Luke Fletcher, Plaid Cymru’s former economy spokesperson, called for a more equitable economic model. Drawing on his background in economic research, he emphasised fair work, stronger public ownership in strategic sectors, and targeted support for communities affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

From the Conservative perspective, former Secretary of State for Wales David TC Davies stressed the importance of infrastructure, industrial policy, and private-sector-led growth. Reflecting on his time in government, he pointed to engagement with major industries, including steel, as key to economic stability.

Shavanah Taj, Welsh Labour candidate for Caerdydd Ffynnon Taf, placed workers and inclusive growth at the centre of Labour’s approach. She highlighted the role of skills development, fair pay, and industrial strategy, alongside the importance of collaboration between government, employers, and trade unions.

Business experience and alternative perspectives

The panel also featured voices from outside traditional political pathways. Reform UK candidate Jason O’Connell brought a business and engineering perspective shaped by three decades in aerospace, defence, and energy. He emphasised operational efficiency, leadership in complex industries, and securing long-term, high-value work for Wales.

Welsh Liberal Democrat candidate Julie Goodfellow drew on her experience in healthcare, ICT, and small business. With expertise in lean operations, she argued for improving public service efficiency and supporting SMEs through smarter systems and better value for money.

Griffiths provided continuity throughout the session, guiding the discussion across key themes and encouraging detailed, policy-driven contributions.

Focus on productivity and delivery

As part of Cardiff Business School’s Productivity Week, the event placed particular focus on how parties plan to address Wales’ longstanding productivity challenges. Panellists were pressed on how their policies would translate into measurable outcomes, including supporting SME growth, strengthening skills pipelines, increasing investment, and driving innovation.

While approaches differed, there was broad agreement on the need to better align skills with industry demand and to create conditions that attract investment into Wales.

Engagement and next steps

Griffiths closed by emphasising the importance of ongoing dialogue between policymakers, businesses, and civil society to ensure economic strategies are both ambitious and deliverable.

As Wales continues to grapple with challenges around productivity, skills, and regional inequality, the event highlighted both the complexity of the task ahead and the central role economic policy will play in shaping the country’s future.