Here's the latest Argus column by Blaenau Gwent MP Nick Smith:

WITH issues surrounding Covid-19 continuing to be the focus of the vast majority of news and a great deal of activity in Parliament, it is important we do not lose sight of other crucial issues which need addressing.

I am becoming increasingly concerned by a lack of activity around plans for the Shared Prosperity Fund, the UK Government’s proposed alternative to EU funding for areas like Blaenau Gwent.

I have been calling for updates on progress for a long time, asking questions which continue to be met with mysterious and meaningless phrases about “levelling up” the economy and vague promises of matching previous EU funding for Wales.

MORE NEWS:

Cabins set up in Newport for homeless during Covid-19 outbreak

Sparkle charity's urgent appeal receives huge support and government grant

Pontypool RFC CEO Ben Jeffreys on mental health struggles

A few weeks ago I wrote to the Chancellor about protecting the Welsh economy post-coronavirus and highlighting the urgent need for clarity on the fund.

I also wrote to the secretary of state for Wales to ask whether plans for economic recovery in Wales after the Covid-19 outbreak included getting the ball rolling on a consultation on the Fund, something which was supposed to have taken place before the end of 2018.

I’m afraid that his answer provided anything but clarity.

The lack of movement on this issue is very disconcerting. It wasn’t even mentioned in the last budget.

I am, however, glad to see that the Welsh Affairs Committee has begun an inquiry into the proposed Fund.

A recent contribution from an economic development consultancy to the inquiry spells out the importance of this fund to Wales, referencing sums which are “far from trifling” – including the £1.2 billion of European Regional Development Fund money for research and development, for infrastructure projects (such as improving roads) and for supporting small businesses among other things.

It also notes the £860 million of European Social Fund money for supporting the development of skills for workers and those seeking employment.

This sort of funding will be vital in helping Wales recover from the crisis we are currently experiencing.

The government must ensure that this money will be available and also make clear how the new funding will work, guaranteeing that allocation will be based on need rather than population size.

We need the government to share its plans so they can be properly scrutinised well in advance and we need assurance that Wales’ economic recovery will be fully supported.