St Athan Announcement

10.41.43am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 17th Jan 2007

Welsh Liberal Democrat Enterprise, Innovation and Networks spokesperson, Kirsty Williams, has welcomed the news that the government is to make an announcement later today on the future of St Athan.

It is widely expected that the Defence Secretary will announce St Athan as the site for a new defence training academy, creating 5,000 jobs and £58m annually to the local economy.

Ms Williams said: "It is hard to underestimate the economic impact this will have if St Athan's bid is successful. It is a huge investment in Wales and the people of Wales, and my congratulations go to all those who have worked on the bid, who have been vigorously promoting the advantages of a South Wales location and the useful experience of the local workforce.

"There have been a number of job losses and closure threats at St Athan over the past few years, but this contract should now bring some stability to the workers and to local people. It is a vote of confidence not just in St Athan, but in the whole of Wales - a recognition that we are a location with expertise, a country with ability, a place to do business."

Notes:

· Defence Secretary Des Browne will be making his announcement later today, and Kirsty Williams will issue a further statement at that time.