WELSH SECRETARY Jo Stevens has chaired the first meeting of the Welsh Economic Growth Advisory Group, an initiative aimed at boosting prosperity, shaping the UK’s industrial strategy, and positioning Britain as a global leader in clean energy.

The meeting, held on Monday (Dec 2), brought together representatives from both governments, alongside leaders in business, education, industry, and unions, to influence cross-government policy. The group’s goal is to enhance economic growth, create jobs, and increase household incomes across Wales.

Supporting Welsh innovation

As part of this initiative, Stevens met with leaders in Wales’s digital and technology sectors to explore growth opportunities. Last week, she toured Wolf Studios in Cardiff Bay, home to productions such as *Doctor Who* and *A Discovery of Witches*, while discussing Wales’s creative industries.

Speaking after the meeting, Jo Stevens said: “I was thrilled to meet some of Wales’s most talented and ambitious minds and hear their ideas on how we usher in a new era of prosperity. This partnership has hit the ground running, working at pace to rekindle Wales’s proud industrial roots with jobs and industries of the future.”

Focus on key sectors

The group is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the UK Government’s Industrial Strategy, which will prioritise Welsh industries. Their recommendations will also inform Welsh priorities for the UK Spending Review in spring 2025.

Since July, the UK Government has announced more than £1 billion in investments for North Wales, launched Growth Deals and Investment Zones, secured a steel industry deal for Wales, and delivered a record Budget settlement for public services. Over the next six months, the advisory group will meet regularly to refine priorities for economic growth and clean energy.

Voices from across Wales

Alison Orrells, Chair of CBI Wales, said: “I welcome the opportunity to share our members’ insights on actions needed to drive sustainable growth and prosperity across Wales. From regional investments to green growth projects and semiconductor clusters, Welsh businesses can play a crucial role in delivering this mission.”

Shavanah Taj, General Secretary of TUC Cymru, highlighted the need to address economic inequalities: “Many parts of Wales have been scarred by deindustrialisation and underinvestment. These plans must prioritise decent work, manufacturing, and a just transition to net zero.”

Oriel Petry, Head of Airbus Group UK Public Affairs, said: “I look forward to advocating for Wales to capitalise on its sectoral strengths and industries of the future.”

Dr Jenifer Baxter, CEO of Industry Wales, added: “Industry Wales is excited to help shape an industrial strategy that drives innovation and economic growth through high-value manufacturing, clean energy, and digital connectivity.”

Sir Derek Jones, Independent Adviser at Cardiff University, concluded: “Economic growth must be the top priority for Wales. This initiative is a vital step in ensuring that goal is achieved.”

The Welsh Economic Growth Advisory Group marks a fresh approach to tackling Wales’s economic challenges and unlocking its potential for future prosperity.

THE PEMBROKESHIRE HERALD’S recent report on Labour MP Henry Tufnell’s family financial dealings has ignited national media interest. GB News and the Daily Mail have expanded on the story, raising fresh questions about the potential implications of Labour’s proposed inheritance tax changes.

TIMING OF LAND TRANSFER

The controversy centres on the timing of the Tufnell family’s land transfer. On October 10, just 20 days before Labour unveiled new inheritance tax rules affecting farmers, Mark and Jane Tufnell transferred ownership of Upper Colne Farm and Stud to their son, Albermarle. Critics suggest the move could shield the family from millions in future tax liabilities.

Both GB News and the Daily Mail have highlighted the proximity of these transactions to the Budget announcement, questioning whether the Pembrokeshire MP’s family had foreknowledge of the tax changes. While Henry Tufnell’s spokesperson denies any wrongdoing, opponents have branded the actions as “hypocrisy of the highest order.”

UNVEILING FAMILY WEALTH

The latest press coverage has also laid bare – to a national audience – the scale of the Tufnell family’s wealth.

GB News detailed their ownership of the 2,200-acre Calmsden Estate in the Cotswolds, complete with an arboretum, spring-fed swimming pool, and luxury gardens. In addition, the family reportedly owns multiple residential properties on the estate and a £4.4 million Belgravia mews house in London.

The Daily Mail added that Upper Colne Farm controls assets worth over £2 million, including £1.9 million in agricultural land, with Albermarle Tufnell gaining “significant control” over the business.

NEW TRUST RAISES QUESTIONS

Further scrutiny surrounds the creation of the “Tufnell 2024 Settlement” trust on October 24, a week before the Budget announcement. While details of the trust remain unclear, a family source claimed it was established to support future generations. Critics, however, argue the timing casts doubt on its intent.

POLITICAL FALLOUT

The national debate sparked by this case has reignited concerns over Labour’s inheritance tax policy and its impact on the farming community. With Welsh farmers facing increasing financial strain, the disparity between the Tufnell family’s affluence and the average family farm has not gone unnoticed.

As the story develops, the Herald will continue to monitor the unfolding political and public reaction to the Tufnell family’s financial dealings.

HAVERFORDWEST Town Council has welcomed a new member following its meeting on Thursday (Nov 21).

Mr Kishore Manikonda was co-opted onto the council and will represent The Garth Ward.

County Councillor for Castle Ward, Thomas Tudor, expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment. Speaking to The Herald, Cllr Tudor said: “I look forward to working closely with Councillor Manikonda on Haverfordwest issues and offer my support and congratulations to him on his appointment.”

Councillor Manikonda joins the council at a time when collaboration across wards is seen as crucial for addressing local matters effectively.