Jones unveils think tank but rules out competition
First Minister Carwyn Jones will today rule out using market-based systems to help public service reform in Wales. But he will set out plans to create a think tank, the Institute for Public Policy, to come up with innovative ideas.
Jones will unveil his thinking at the Wales Public Services 2025 event at the University of Glamorgan’s Atrium building in Cardiff this morning.
In a draft version of his speech, Jones is scheduled to say: "It will come as no surprise when I say that we reject the model of reform driven by the market and competition between service providers. There is clear evidence that marketisation works against equality and social justice – for us these are core principles that must underpin public service delivery.
"Our approach to reform is about supporting organisations to unlock innovation and change, working in partnership with the workforce and the third sector. For us delivering reform is about collaboration, simplification and accountability."
The proposed Institute for Public Policy should provide access to new thinking from Wales, Europe and beyond.
Jones is expected to say: "I’m open to ideas as to how we do this. The institute should form a bridge between the Welsh Government and the world of research and think tanks, to create a strong network of expertise and insight underpinned by a shared understanding of the problems and opportunities we face in Wales. It should be at arm’s length from Government but strongly connected to it, so that it can challenge thinking and influence delivery at the drawing board stage.
"It should not crowd out the work of the Bevan Institute and the Institute of Welsh Affairs – it is important to acknowledge the good work they do with modest resources. It should focus on impact – through new ways of working, with, dare I say it, fewer reports and more communication, getting the right people together and ensuring effective and relevant links are made.”
In a separate development, the European Regional Development Fund, through the Welsh Government, is to provide £3m towards a £4m scheme to regenerate town centres in north east Wales.
The funding will support plans by Flintshire and Wrexham councils to improve the appearance of towns including Buckley, Connah’s Quay, Flint, Holywell, Mold, Queensferry, Saltney, and Shotton. In Wrexham, the King Street area will get a makeover to complement the bus station.
