THE Information Commissioner’s Office is looking into reports the Welsh Government failed to provide financial information asked for through a Freedom of Information Act request.

Plaid Cymru has accused the Welsh Government of failing to respond to their request asking for information about jobs and investment since the launch of a scheme to encourage business growth.

In 2012 the Welsh Government created seven 'enterprise zones' across Wales, including one in Ebbw Vale, which would receive extra funding to support infrastructure and offer incentives for businesses.

Yesterday Plaid Cymru revealed they had made an FOI request calling for information about how many jobs had been created and kept in these enterprise zones, but claimed they had not received an answer.

A spokesperson for the ICO said: “We have received a freedom of information complaint relating to this matter.

“We are currently looking into the details before deciding what further action, if any, is required.”

Plaid Cymru Shadow Minister for the Economy & Enterprise, Rhun ap Iorwerth AM, said: “In England, the information is readily available, why not in Wales?

“Plaid Cymru supports the development of enterprise zones and wants them to succeed in creating jobs. But people have a right to know more about the success of a scheme which involves spending public money.

“The Welsh Government needs to rethink their opposition to the release of this information. They should do so as soon as possible.”

According to the statement from Plaid Cymru, the Welsh Government had so far given £12,784.747 to the enterprise zones, of which £7,314,000 was made up of business grants.

Ebbw Vale's enterprise zone has so far seen the development of several high-technology manufacturing companies.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said: “We are aware of this investigation and our officials will respond to the Information Commissioner’s enquiries.”