Tory AM Mark Isherwood has blasted the poor state of the Welsh economy

Jun 25 2009 by Chris Smith, Flintshire Chronicle

CLIENT problems handled by Citizens Advice Cymru have risen from almost 270,000 to nearly 300,000 over the last year, including a 19% increase in debt-related problems.

This was one of a number of facts highlighted by Welsh Conservative AM Mark Isherwood as he spoke in the Assembly chamber about the poor state of the Welsh economy.

The North Wales AM said Rhodri Morgan blames Labour’s worst election result in Wales since the First World War on ‘anything and everything other than himself’.

He highlighted the fact Wales has the highest mortgage repossessions in the UK and said the Welsh Government’s mortgage rescue scheme, while welcome, will barely scratch the surface of need.

Mr Isherwood, Shadow Minister for Social Justice, Equality and Housing, added: “Even before the recession the problem of low income was already rising sharply. The recession's effects on poverty will worsen.

“The risk may be of a new generation lacking the experience, qualifications and self belief to provide for themselves and their families.”