Hypocrisy and confusion over international travel at Cardiff Airport

International flights to and from state-owned Cardiff Airport were put to the First Minister during Plenary by Andrew RT Davies MS – the Welsh Conservative Senedd Leader – who asked why it is permitted to fly from Cardiff to Alicante, but not to drive from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.

Mr Davies said:

“Countries in Europe are entering a third wave of Coronavirus, so it can’t be right that you’re permitted to fly from Cardiff to Alicante, but not to drive from the capital to Aberystwyth.

“The First Minister has previously talked about building a wall as high as possible when it comes to overseas travel, but like much of his administration, when it comes to the crunch he’s all talk, no action.

“More importantly, it’s deeply frustrating for those running, or more accurately, trying to keep afloat tourist and hospitality businesses in Wales that you can go and spend your money abroad, but not here and risk bringing back potentially another variant of this virus.

“It’s hypocritical of Labour and confusing for the people of Wales who simply want a detailed roadmap out of lockdown, and they’ll be bemused to learn no testing facilities have been put in place at the taxpayer-owned airport.

“In May it’s a straight choice between Labour who refuse to provide Wales with a roadmap – and want restrictions to be with us for the rest of 2021 and beyond – whilst giving its nationalised airport special status. 

“Or the Welsh Conservatives, who will provide a detailed roadmap out of lockdown for families, workers and businesses, ensuring we get on the road to recovery and build a better Wales.”