UK Government Ministers Robin Walker and Alun Cairns will today (6 Nov) meet with a panel of Welsh businesses, universities and the voluntary and farming sectors in Cardiff as part of ongoing engagement on the opportunities and challenges of exiting the EU.

This meeting will follow an evidence session with the National Assembly for Wales where the ministers will answer questions on the EU Withdrawal Bill.

The visit is part of an ongoing programme of engagement with all parts of the UK on Brexit, and builds on recent visits to Wales by the First Secretary of State Damian Green, Environment Secretary Michael Gove and International Trade Secretary Liam Fox.

Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns said:

As we continue to make decisive steps towards our exit from the EU, we are committed to bringing all of the UK with us – ensuring that every sector’s voice is heard and that every nation is able to flourish from day one of departure. The people of Wales want to make Brexit a success and both the Welsh Government and UK Government want the same thing - we want Wales to prosper and we want an agreement for the whole of the UK with the European Union. As we leave the EU, Wales will share the benefits of the UK’s new role as a strong, global, free-trading nation. That is why we are stepping up our engagement with key sectors in Wales throughout the exit process. I’m delighted to welcome Robin Walker to Cardiff today to continue those discussions.

Minister at the Department for Exiting the EU, Robin Walker said:

We are committed to securing a deal that works for the entire United Kingdom, enabling Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and England to fully embrace the opportunities our EU exit offers. As we continue our unprecedented level of engagement on Brexit, I look forward to hearing from key sectors in Wales about their priorities for Brexit and to updating them on negotiations and the progress of the Withdrawal Bill.

The Withdrawal Bill is a key piece of legislation in the national interest which will convert EU law to UK law on exit day, ensuring we leave the EU with certainty, continuity and control. The Bill will enter committee stage on November 14th.

The Secretary of State for Wales established the Expert Panel to work with him to deliver a smooth and orderly exit from the EU in Wales. The third meeting today builds on the constructive conversations they have already had, helping to contribute to the UK’s negotiating position.

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