SHADOW Welsh Secretary Peter Hain has heaped praise on Glyndwr University ahead of a visit to Wrexham today.
The Neath MP congratulated vice-chancellor Professor Michael Scott in his efforts to create more jobs following the signing of a ground-breaking deal with a training company.
The agreement, with Action for Employment Ltd (A4e), will provide re-training to disadvantaged people in Wrexham.
In an exclusive interview with the Leader, Mr Hain said: “I think Glyndwr is a fantastic university.
“All credit is due to vice-chancellor Michael Scott for his vision. I have every respect for what he is trying to do.”
Mr Hain also spoke positively of the multi-million pound Western Gateway, a proposed new hub for office and scientific research on land between the Maelor Hospital and the A483, adding: “It’s very encouraging at a time of doom and gloom.”
Mr Hain is in Wrexham to unveil Labour's plan for jobs and growth in North Wales at the Welsh Grand Committee at the Guildhall.
His five-point plan includes a proposal to temporarily reverse the VAT rise introduced in January, in order for young families to reap an estimated extra £450.
“This is £450 in their pockets which they could spend on food and other necessities,” he said.
Mr Hain is also proposing a one-year National Insurance tax break for small businesses which take on extra workers, and slash VAT in the construction industry from 20 per cent to five per cent.
He said: “The construction industry is on its back. This would really help small firms at a dark time.”
Mr Hain is calling on the Government to impose a £2 billion tax on bankers' bonuses solely to fund employment and training opportunities for young people.
“The plight of young people today is desperate,” said Mr Hain, who will have lunch with Yale College principal Jasbir Dhesi during his visit to Wrexham.
“They now have to deal with gigantic university fees if they are studying outside of Wales. It’s really serious.”
New figures reveal there are four people for every one job vacancy in Wrexham, and 12 in the constituency of Clwyd South.
The Welsh Grand Committee of 40 Welsh MPs will also hear from UK Government employment minister Chris Grayling MP.
It will be the first time the committee has met in Wales since 2001.