Chief Executive of Wales’ leading co-operative development organisation welcomes Minister for Economy, Science and Transport’s response to the Welsh Co-operatives and Mutuals Commission Report

Derek Walker, the Chief Executive of the Wales Co-operative Centre, welcomed today’s response by the Minister for Economy, Science and Transport’s to the Welsh Co-operatives and Mutuals Commission Report which was published in February. 

The Commission concluded that co-operatives and mutuals offer significant business economic, social and environmental benefits compared with ordinary businesses. The Commission report highlighted how co-operatives and mutuals can create jobs, improve educational attainment and reduce inequality. The report set out proposals for a comprehensive programme to support the sector’s growth.

In response to the Minister’s statement, Mr Walker said: 

“The Welsh Co-operatives and Mutuals Commission made some bold and ambitious recommendations designed to accelerate growth in an already dynamic and innovative sector. 

“The Wales Co-operative Centre welcomes this positive response from the Economy, Science and Transport Minister and from Ministers across Welsh Government. The announcement made today on specialist business support as well as on strengthening the capacity of research, strategy and policy for the sector will go a long way to helping the sector to realise its potential.

“The Centre looks forward to working with the Finance Minister to establish a pilot project to demonstrate how public procurement can help grow new co-operatives and mutuals in Wales.

“Finally, it is fantastic to see that co-operative and mutuals will now have a seat at the table of influential panels, such as the Business Wales Strategic Board, to ensure the sector’s voice continues to be heard in the years ahead.”

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For further information and for interview opportunities, please contact David Madge Marketing and PR Officer david.madge@walescooperative.org 01792 484005