16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762511 0 Cy 260602-0 I This is a draft version of the Record that includes the floor language and the simultaneous interpretation.  [R] indicates that the Member has declared an interest when tabling the business. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762512 1 Cy 260602-0 I The Senedd met in the Chamber and by video-conference at 13:30 with the Llywydd (Huw Irranca-Davies) in the Chair. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762514 2 Cy 2026-06-02T13:30:01 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 5053 5053 Huw Irranca-Davies https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=5053 The Llywydd Irranca-Davies, Huw Welcome back, everyone, a very good afternoon to you all. We will move immediately to questions to the First Minister, and the first question is from Art Wright.  16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762515 3 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister B Accident and Emergency Department Performance 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762516 4 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister O 12157 12157 Art Wright https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12157 Wright, Art 1. What assessment has the First Minister made of accident and emergency performance in Newport and Islwyn? OQ64075 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762517 5 En 2026-06-02T13:30:30 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=30&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun The minor injuries unit at the Royal Gwent Hospital, located in the Casnewydd and Islwyn constituency, met the national target in April. Ninety-six per cent of patients were assessed, treated, and discharged within the four-hour standard. But, more broadly, I expect the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board to deliver sustainable improvements to emergency care across the wider Gwent area. NHS Wales Performance and Improvement is actively providing support and reviewing the health board’s plan. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762519 6 En 2026-06-02T13:31:00 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=60&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12157 12157 Art Wright https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12157 Wright, Art I thank the First Minister for his answer. It is already clear from my constituents what the majority of issues they face are. Given the continuing pressures upon emergency healthcare services across Gwent, do you agree that the lack of a full and properly functioning accident and emergency service in Newport is now having a serious knock-on effect on residents in Cwmbran and the wider Torfaen area, with constituents facing longer journey times, increased waiting times and added pressure on already stretched hospitals? Diolch.  16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762521 7 En 2026-06-02T13:31:33 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=93&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun I certainly agree that the provision of suitable, effective, high quality accident and emergency in the Member's constituency, and throughout Wales, is vitally important. We need a significant improvement on the current situation, and the Grange hospital, serving the wider Gwent area, consistently falls short, of course, of meeting the four-hour standard. Latest performance figures are unsatisfactory. Prolonged waiting times continue to pose significant challenges. So, I couldn't make it clearer than to say that my Cabinet Minister for Health and Care, and myself, want to see much more being done to provide the kind of level of care that the Member references.  16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762524 8 En 2026-06-02T13:32:19 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=139&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 5038 5038 Jayne Bryant https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=5038 Bryant, Jayne As a local resident, I'm very aware of some of the unacceptable delays that people have experienced in accident and emergency at the Grange hospital. And I've also been struck by the number of people who have said to me that individual NHS staff members are trying their absolute best to provide excellent care under pressure.  The previous Welsh Labour Government invested significantly in the Grange accident and emergency department, because the unacceptably long waits and corridor care experienced by some patients requires action to a systematic level. An important aspect of improving emergency care is keeping people out of hospital in the first place, as well as the safe and timely discharge of patients to free up capacity in emergency departments. Whether it's working with local authorities on social care, community care, or transfers to other hospitals like the Royal Gwent, how is the Welsh Government going to fund the integration of pathways out of acute hospital care? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762525 9 En 2026-06-02T13:33:21 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=201&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun We know that integration has to be at the heart of creating sustainability within the health and care service as a whole. Keeping people out of hospital is an important part of that. A strong social care sector at the back door of the hospital is key to that.  The Member references the investment made in the Grange. What this Government is determined to do is not just count the pennies but look at the outcomes that come out of investment, and that will guide us as a principle through the course of this Government.  16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762527 10 En 2026-06-02T13:33:50 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=230&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 336 336 Natasha Asghar https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=336 Asghar, Natasha First Minister, it's no secret that the state of our health service is one of, if not the most important issues that matter to residents across Wales. It's something that came up time and time again during the election campaign when talking to people on the doorsteps. And as things stand, my constituents are sent to the Grange in Cwmbran, which is already struggling to cope with demand in an emergency situation. In Newport, there are growing calls to have an A&E department to be reopened at the Royal Gwent Hospital in the heart of the city. It's anticipated that the cost of doing this will cost approximately £10 million a year, which, in the grand scheme of things, is just a drop in the ocean when looking at the Welsh Government's budget. Not only would this alleviate pressure off the Grange, but it would also create job opportunities, something particularly needed given the recent warning that up to half of all nursing graduates in Wales may be left without a job due to recruitment challenges, despite the NHS in Wales facing unprecedented pressures.  So, First Minister, will you heed my constituents' calls and engage with the health board to explore reopening the A&E at the Royal Gwent in Newport? Thank you. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762531 11 En 2026-06-02T13:34:44 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=284&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun We hear the calls, as I will hear calls, no doubt, for investment in different parts of the country. What's important to me, I think, is to recognise the challenges that are being faced by the Member's constituents, to put together a level of service that provides for the needs of her constituents. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762518 12 En 2026-06-02T13:35:00 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=300&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun a level of service that provides for the needs of her constituents. Welsh Government officials, NHS performance and improvement, and the health board are currently working together to agree an intervention approach based on the infrastructure that we have for the delivery of health. Let's see where we can get on improving the services in that way.   16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762522 13 Cy 2026-06-02T13:35:19 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=319&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 8579 8579 Peredur Owen Griffiths https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=8579 Griffiths, Peredur Owen First Minister, over the past six months, you know that I've had personal experience of emergency treatment after falling in Newport and tearing a tendon in my knee. I was seen at the Royal Gwent,  and then at the Grange, and then at St Woolos. I saw the best of the Aneurin Bevan health board at that time, but also the huge pressures on the system. The staff were professional and kind, and did their very best under very difficult circumstances. I also saw what the pressures on the system mean for patients: long waits, lack of capacity, pressure in terms of beds, and for me the hardest thing to deal with was the difficulty in communication in terms of what's going to happen next. So First Minister, do you agree that improving emergency care in Casnewydd Islwyn means looking at the entire patient journey, not just the targets, and that clear communication internally between departments with patients and families is an inextricable part of ensuring that people are treated with dignity from the beginning to the end of their journey? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762529 14 Cy 2026-06-02T13:36:19 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=379&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun Without doubt, it's good to see the Member back on his feet. Quite literally, our plans to improve health services are based on a whole-systems approach as the Member quite rightly noted. Our new workforce plan, for example, will include an emphasis on better strategic planning for services in order to facilitate patient flow, drawing on best practice already in place in some parts of Wales. We need to spread that and to ingrain it at a national level. We also know that the measures need to go hand in hand with strengthening community care, and I know that the Cabinet Secretary has a particular interest in ensuring that the importance of allied health professionals operates effectively and that that is reflected in our plans. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762536 15 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister B Water Pollution 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762537 16 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister O 12171 12171 David Mills https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12171 Mills, David 2. What action will the Welsh Government take to address water pollution? OQ64070 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762538 17 En 2026-06-02T13:37:15 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=435&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun Welsh Government is determined to improve water quality. We have committed to taking full control of our water and to tackling pollution through developing a system made in Wales, for Wales. This includes better data, cleaner rivers, and science-led, outcome-based and risk-appropriate regulation. We will act by targeting prevention and enforcement where evidence shows it is needed, using technology and nature-based solutions.   16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762543 18 En 2026-06-02T13:37:43 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=463&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12171 12171 David Mills https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12171 Mills, David First Minister, we all know that Welsh Water is pumping raw sewage out into our rivers. Each year, they get fined millions of pounds and each year their CEO gets huge bonuses. I mean, this is so wrong. What concrete action is the First Minister going to take to address this? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762550 19 En 2026-06-02T13:38:14 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=494&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun I hope that Members across this Chamber will agree with Plaid Cymru's determination to take Welsh Water into Welsh hands. It is because we want to set a set of values which could include senior executive pay, for example, into the way that water is run in Wales. What we want also, of course, is to have a system that works. We want clean rivers. We have a clear manifesto commitment to improving water quality and setting clear expectations of Natural Resources Wales, Ofwat and the water companies themselves. We want to be able to deliver, or monitor delivery rather, through this current price review period and hold companies to account for meeting their investment and performance commitments, including on matters such as storm overflows, which pollute our rivers, and wider environmental outcomes. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762554 20 En 2026-06-02T13:39:17 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=557&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12172 12172 Rebeca Phillips https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12172 Phillips, Rebaca Over recent weeks, concerns have been raised by residents in the Swansea valley regarding the condition of the River Tawe, following reports that a number of individuals, many children, have fallen ill after entering the water. I welcome the new Plaid Cymru Government's commitment to improve the collection and quality of data on pollution incidents, and its ambition to ensure that every water body in Wales achieves at least good ecological status. May I ask the First Minister to provide assurance to residents within my constituency of Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd that the Government will work closely with Natural Resources Wales and Dŵr Cymru to thoroughly investigate  16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762520 21 En 2026-06-02T13:40:00 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=600&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12172 12172 Rebeca Phillips https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12172 Phillips, Rebaca to thoroughly investigate these incidents, and take the necessary action to safeguard public health and improve water quality? Diolch. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762523 22 En 2026-06-02T13:40:10 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=610&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun I am aware of and am concerned about recent reported incidents of sickness when individuals have been swimming in the River Tawe. I have asked Natural Resources Wales to investigate the reports, and I will provide an update when further information becomes available. I can provide assurance, certainly, that I will work with all stakeholders necessary to ensure a joined-up approach to any investigations and associated responses. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762526 23 En 2026-06-02T13:40:38 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=638&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 332 332 Mike Hedges https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=332 Hedges, Mike River pollution is a critical environmental issue, caused by sewage, agricultural run-off, industrial waste and plastic debris, severely impacting ecosystems, human health and water quality. On the River Tawe, Trebanos pumping station is not splitting rainwater and sewage, so, when it gets full, the two choices are to let it back up and flood the houses with sewage or release it into the river. Now, as mentioned earlier, there have been reports of children being taken ill after swimming in the River Tawe. Natural Resources Wales has confirmed that work to prevent regular discharge of untreated sewage in the River Tawe from Trebanos wastewater treatment works is not likely to be completed until 2030. I do not believe that is acceptable. Why do you think ending the ban on slurry spreading from mid-October to January is not going to further increase pollution in the River Tawe? We know that it gets into rivers such as the Tawe, it can cause algal blooms, which block sunlight and deplete water oxygen, affecting all wildlife. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762530 24 En 2026-06-02T13:41:35 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=695&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun Two parts to that answer. Measures around the spreading of slurry are about avoiding environmental pollution in rivers so that agriculture isn't forced to follow the calendar and is actually able to work in a technologically based way to spread slurry in a way that doesn't pose a threat to rivers. I think that's a very important thing to remember. On the need to make sure that investment works, that is why we want the regulation of water to be done here in Wales, so that we can make sure that, when investment goes in, it provides us with the outcomes that we need, which includes, of course, clean rivers. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762534 25 En 2026-06-02T13:42:11 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=731&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 145 145 Paul Davies https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=145 Davies, Paul First Minister, reports of sewage discharges in Ceredigion Penfro are also far too frequent, and my constituents are increasingly frustrated that these incidents continue to occur with little visible progress in addressing this pollution. Now, as well as tackling these discharges and storm overflows, urgent action is also needed to improve our water infrastructure to prevent these incidences from recurring. Now, as you're aware, west Wales is home to many Blue Flag and Green Coast beaches, and it's vital that these water-quality standards can continue to be met so that our coast can be enjoyed by local residents and, indeed, visitors to the area as well. Therefore, can you outline what steps are currently being taken to address repeated sewage discharges in west Wales? And further to your earlier answers, what further measures will this Government introduce to tackle this issue in Ceredigion Penfro and ensure that the local beaches continue to maintain high-quality standards? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762539 26 En 2026-06-02T13:43:15 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=795&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun I think the most important thing to do is to repeat what I said: we will act by targeting prevention and enforcement where evidence shows it is needed. That means in relation to polluted rivers, and it means in relation to polluted seas around our coast. We want to see urgent action. It is why we want to see regulation of water being devolved to Wales so that we can have as much influence as possible on the cleanliness of our rivers and our seas. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762549 27 En 2026-06-02T13:43:44 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=824&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 4983 4983 Jane Dodds https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=4983 Dodds, Jane Good afternoon, First Minister. I just want to go back to the issues around Dŵr Cymru, if I may, please. In just two years, people have seen their average water bill rise by over 30 per cent, yet this has not translated into clear improvements in water quality. England and Wales remain the only countries in Europe to have fully privatised water and sewage services. At the same time, senior pay, as we've heard, remains extremely high. The previous chief executive of Dŵr Cymru received an annual salary close to £900,000. The current new chief executive, Roch Cheroux, who joined from Sydney Water in Australia—another large water company, which has faced ongoing challenges with sewage overflows and water quality—his salary is going to be between £420,000 and £460,000. I think that is pretty shameless. So, I would like to ask you, what action will you be taking in order to address both the disparity in our water bills increasing and the pay that we're seeing in the senior executives, and ensuring that we get improved water? Diolch yn fawr iawn. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762556 28 En 2026-06-02T13:44:59 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=899&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun The rising cost 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762553 29 En 2026-06-02T13:45:00 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=900&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun The rising cost of bills in recent times has caused real pain to people. It is a significant element for many people when it comes to the challenge of the cost of living. When you look at higher bills, it is particularly difficult to stomach in the context of very high executive pay. I am on the record previously as saying that one of the reasons that we want to regulate water in Wales is to make sure that we are able to have influence over the levels of executive pay, but it's also about providing a better service, ultimately, to our customers here in Wales—the people that we represent—and making sure that we have the clean, clear waters and the clear seas that we all want to see. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762558 30 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister B Questions Without Notice from the Party Leaders 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762557 31 Cy 2026-06-02T13:45:01 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=901&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 5053 5053 Huw Irranca-Davies https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=5053 The Llywydd Irranca-Davies, Huw I now call on the party leaders to question the First Minister. Leader of Reform UK, Dan Thomas. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762560 32 En 2026-06-02T13:45:49 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=949&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12147 12147 Dan Thomas https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12147 Leader of the Opposition Thomas, Dan Diolch, Llywydd. First Minister, thousands of people in Wales are still waiting more than two years for treatment on the Welsh NHS, whereas in England two-year waits were virtually eradicated some time ago, which proves that ending two-year waits can be achieved. During the election campaign, you said that two-year waits could end in a matter of months, but your new health Minister has said it will happen within four years. So, my question is: what expectations has your Government set for two-year waits? Is it the promise that you made during the election campaign, or is it what your health Minister has said more recently? And, if it is the latter, will you apologise to voters for misleading them during the campaign? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762562 33 En 2026-06-02T13:46:37 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=997&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun I'm grateful to the leader of the opposition for now agreeing with us that health is a priority here in Wales. Listen, I've made it very, very clear that there are two elements to what we're trying to do. We want to cut waiting lists in the short term, and we want to build a sustainable health and care service for the long term. I reiterate that a priority for us now is to tackle, in the coming months, those issues of the longest two-year waits. In fact, I'm not waiting for the next months, work has already begun to put in practice the changes that are necessary to tackle that very issue. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762563 34 En 2026-06-02T13:47:10 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1030&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12147 12147 Dan Thomas https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12147 Thomas, Dan First Minister, 30 per cent of voters voted for Reform because they do trust us with the NHS. Ten thousand people were stuck in A&E for over 12 hours last month, and ambulance handover targets are consistently missed. Health should be your top priority, and you recently acknowledged this in the Chamber—that there is an emergency situation within the NHS. But, on social media, you've highlighted the non-devolved matter of international relations as being within your remit as First Minister, an area which enjoys a £9 million budget. Reform believes that that money should be spent here in Wales on the Welsh NHS. For example, it could be used to employ hundreds of newly qualified nurses. So, First Minister, why are you continuing Labour's policy of spending large sums of money abroad when it should be spent in Wales and we should be putting the people of Wales first? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762568 35 En 2026-06-02T13:48:11 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1091&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun I'll begin this answer in the spirit that I want to conduct my business here, by pointing out that more people voted for Plaid Cymru because they trusted our pledges to deliver a sustainable health and care service for the future. Let's be serious about the challenges that we face, rather than the small change that is referred to by the leader of the opposition. We are talking about significant sums of money that we are investing already through a budget deal last year into the NHS. I can assure you of this: it's through innovation and it's through working with staff within the NHS that we provide that sustainability for the future. I remind the leader of the opposition that he leads a group in Wales from a Party whose leader does not believe in an NHS funded through general taxation. That is a principle that we will defend here as we deliver that NHS that's fit for the future, for patients and for staff alike. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762571 36 En 2026-06-02T13:49:10 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1150&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12147 12147 Dan Thomas https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12147 Thomas, Dan I'll remind the First Minister that Plaid Cymru only won 6 per cent more than Reform, and that very small lead can be eroded when you do not stick to your policies and when you do not show determination to put the people of Wales first. I'll just remind you of that. You have made clear that your priorities are elsewhere, but that's not surprising coming from a First Minister who, on your first call with the Prime Minister, raised independence as an issue. The public expect you and your Government to give your full attention to the NHS and to focus on the day job. You will be aware of an investigation by Audit Wales that uncovered £10 million-worth of GP contracts were awarded without due diligence and with patients criticising the service. This is a scandal 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762528 37 En 2026-06-02T13:50:00 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1200&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12147 12147 Dan Thomas https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12147 Thomas, Dan This is a scandal that should never happen again. What discussions have you had with the Aneurin Bevan University Local Health Board, and indeed all health boards across Wales, regarding financial probity? And can you reassure us that this scandal will not be repeated under your watch? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762533 38 En 2026-06-02T13:50:16 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1216&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun It's going to be a very long Senedd term if it starts in this way, but we got a certain percentage more than you in the election. Listen, we have a programme for government that we have laid in front of the people of Wales that absolutely gets to grips with issues such as that which was referred to in Aneurin Bevan. We want to make sure that we cut out decisions such as the one that he referred to so that we can focus spending on where it makes a difference—to the patients that we all are here to serve.  The programme for government, I remind you, is this: it is about creating better jobs in all parts of Wales; it is about raising education standards; it is about a childcare offer in order to help with the cost of living; it's about standing up for Wales; and, No. 1, it's about creating an NHS and care service that is fit for the future. That was our pledge and that is what we are determined to deliver in Government.  16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762541 39 Cy 2026-06-02T13:51:12 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1272&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 5053 5053 Huw Irranca-Davies https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=5053 The Llywydd Irranca-Davies, Huw The leader of Welsh Labour, Ken Skates.  16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762545 40 En 2026-06-02T13:51:15 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1275&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 267 267 Ken Skates https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=267 Interim Leader of Welsh Labour Skates, Ken First Minister, again, we are seeing the terrible impact of rising energy costs across Wales on our citizens, on our businesses and of course, on our public services. Our dependence on energy from overseas must end, not only because it threatens our national security, but because it also subjects our people to immense global instability. Do you agree that, alongside renewables, the building of as many as eight small modular reactors at Wylfa offers enormous opportunity to provide energy security, lower bills, and 8,000 jobs, 3,000 of which will be in your constituency? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762555 41 En 2026-06-02T13:51:53 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1313&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun Yes, I have, on a personal level, always taken the approach of fighting for the economic benefits that come to that particular part of Wales from that development, which is a reserved matter. But the key thing is here that my Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy will be focused on the same thing. It's about looking at how we make the most of this opportunity in terms of job creation and in terms of the environmental impact of that, and the Member has my assurance that that will be the principle that guides us. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762561 42 En 2026-06-02T13:52:25 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1345&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 267 267 Ken Skates https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=267 Skates, Ken I'm very grateful to the First Minister for his answer, but can we just have absolute clarity on what the Welsh Government position on small modular reactors now is? I ask because your manifesto failed to reference nuclear energy, failed to provide support for SMRs at Wylfa and, of course, your energy Minister has said that the party, Plaid Cymru, at a national level, must be clear in its opposition to Wylfa B. Does this Plaid minority Government support the building of eight SMRs at Wylfa, which will likely generate more energy than a single gigawatt facility? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762564 43 En 2026-06-02T13:53:00 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1380&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun I remind the leader of the Labour group that his party used to say that it supported the ordinary working man and woman. My position on Wylfa is very, very clear. This is a reserved matter, and the manifesto coming into this election said that there were matters that were reserved, which absolutely includes Wylfa. We will work positively on that particular plan because of the economic benefits locally that can flow from it and across the wider region, plus on the elements of the environmental positives associated with it. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762566 44 Cy 2026-06-02T13:53:37 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1417&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 5053 5053 Huw Irranca-Davies https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=5053 The Llywydd Irranca-Davies, Huw The leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Darren Millar.  16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762570 45 En 2026-06-02T13:53:40 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1420&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 171 171 Darren Millar https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=171 Leader of the Welsh Conservatives Millar, Darren First Minister, can you tell us what action your Government is going to take to deal with the repeated chaos as a result of the frequent closure of the Menai suspension bridge? It's causing misery for residents, commuters and businesses across north Wales, and of course that bridge, and the Britannia bridge, serve an island community of 70,000, that you represent, which is home to one of the most strategically important ports in the United Kingdom and will soon be home to a very important nuclear power facility as well. My colleague, Janet Finch-Saunders, has responded to the anger on the ground by taking the lead and organising a public meeting in order that this can be discussed on 12 June in Llangefni so that the long-term resolution can be brought forward. You've previously spoken, loudly and clearly, in the Senedd in favour of a third Menai crossing. So, now that you're sitting behind the First Minister's desk, can you show some leadership, attend that public meeting on 12 June, look residents in the eye and outline precisely what action your Government is going to take to bring forward that third Menai suspension bridge as soon as possible? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762574 46 En 2026-06-02T13:54:59 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1499&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun I think most people can see 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762532 47 En 2026-06-02T14:00:00 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1800&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun means exactly that. It's making sure that as a Government we are able to break down those silos and encourage co-operation between Ministers, making sure that there aren't walls between those different elements of potential delivery that can address the climate challenge. It's not just the Cabinet Minister for Government effectiveness and the Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability. It's the way that that dovetails in with the work of the Cabinet Minister for enterprise, for innovation and energy. It's the way that we educate our young people through the Cabinet Minister for education. I really wish this to be a hallmark of the way that this Government works and operates, and as I said in my initial answer, we will be providing the tools by which you hopefully will be able to hold us to account, including these digital dashboards that we are so determined to bring forward. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762535 48 En 2026-06-02T14:01:04 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1864&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12143 12143 Niamh Salkeld https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12143 Salkeld, Niamh First Minister, this question raises how progress on the climate and nature emergency is measured and reported across Government. In my constituency of Blaenau Gwent Caerffili Rhymni, we see very clearly why that matters. In Cwmtillery, a devastating coal tip landslide over a year ago brought home how the climate crisis directly impacts our lives. With 85 tips in the highest risk category across Wales, communities are asking not just where the work is happening but how progress is being tracked and shared. I welcome this Plaid Cymru Government's commitment to remediation and to working with the UK Government on funding, as well as linking this to jobs in former coalfield communities like mine. But without cross-Government reporting, people on the ground can struggle to see how these commitments translate into measurable change. So, can I ask the First Minister what mechanisms will be used to ensure that progress on coal tip safety and wider climate resilience work is measured and reported across portfolios, so that communities like Cwmtillery can have confidence that risks are being reduced and opportunities delivered? Diolch. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762540 49 En 2026-06-02T14:02:16 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1936&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun The Member is right. This Government is committed to dealing with the consequences of our industrial past and ensuring justice for our coalfield communities. I did visit Cwmtillery myself after that recent landslip, which really brought home the threats that so many communities are facing. We know that addressing threats associated with coal tips will need a sustained programme of investment. The mining industry, of course, predates devolution, so we're clear of the view that it's the UK Government that should foot that bill, and we'll make the case for that. As part of our suite of measures, we will obviously want to enable Members across this Chamber to be able to measure progress against that state today. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762542 50 En 2026-06-02T14:02:58 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=1978&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 143 143 Andrew R.T. Davies https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=143 Davies, Andrew R.T. Thank you, First Minister. First Minister, for the policies of the Government to be effective in the environment portfolio, you need some of the best land managers in the world to be looking after our countryside, and we have them in Wales in the farming community. One of the key issues, though, to make sure that they stay on the land, is to really make progress on bovine tuberculosis. Your Government has indicated via the Minister that there will be a new approach to bovine TB, so can you confirm what your interpretation is of the science that makes your approach different from the failed Labour approach that used to prevail here in Wales, and will we see that new bovine TB plan before the Royal Welsh Show and the summer recess? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762544 51 En 2026-06-02T14:03:40 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2020&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun The Member is right that my party is determined to bring forward a new approach. I'll put it this simply: it has to be based on the science. We will be ensuring that we work with those experts now who are able to provide us with the answers, and the Cabinet Minister will bring details forward in due course. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762546 52 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister B Science GCSEs 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762547 53 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister O 12160 12160 Stephen Senior https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12160 Senior, Stephen 4. Will the First Minister commit to offering separate physics, chemistry and biology GCSEs, and reverse the previous administration's plans to offer only combined science? OQ64074 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762548 54 En 2026-06-02T14:04:18 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2058&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun Qualifications Wales announced in September 2025 that separate GCSEs in physics, chemistry and biology would continue to be available. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762551 55 En 2026-06-02T14:04:31 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2071&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12160 12160 Stephen Senior https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12160 Senior, Stephen I think the First Minister knows that there is a review of that over the next two years, and I'm disappointed that he can't at this stage commit to saying that he would reverse that review over a two-year period. I should declare an interest; I'm a member of the Institute of Physics, and I'm also a member of both the Association of School and College Leaders and NASUWT teaching unions. I was reminded seeing the film recently—the quite delightful film—of the First Minister singing 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762591 56 En 2026-06-02T14:12:19 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2539&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762559 57 En 2026-06-02T14:10:00 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2400&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun but those debts were not here in Wales, so it is not additional funding, as it were, for ALN. I think that's something that is for us to bear in mind when we recognise what this funding actually was. The former Government managed to take that pressure off. But what we also know is that there is extreme pressure on the whole ALN issue, and we are all, as Members, made aware of the difficulties that families the length and breadth of Wales are facing because of challenges with delivering ALN. Already, measures have started to be put in place by my Government to look at how we make sure what we have is a sustainable level of ALN provision, so that parents understand what they are able to get for their children through the education system, and that Government is in a sustainable position to deliver that. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762572 58 En 2026-06-02T14:10:56 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2456&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 212 212 Janet Finch-Saunders https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=212 Finch-Saunders, Janet The reality is, of course, the former Welsh Labour Government, propped up by Plaid Cymru, have let down our pupils, our teachers and school staff across Wales, and that's been for 27 years. For too long, standards have fallen whilst excuses have risen. Our schools are underperforming, are underfunded, and failing to deliver the outcomes that our young people deserve. Wales has the lowest Programme for International Student Assessment results of all UK nations. Attendance remains below pre-pandemic levels. One in five pupils is reported to leave primary school functionally illiterate. The evidence is clear: standards have slipped, discipline has deteriorated, and too many children are left behind. To be fair, when it comes to ALN— 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762579 59 En 2026-06-02T14:10:02 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2402&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 5053 5053 Huw Irranca-Davies https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=5053 The Llywydd Irranca-Davies, Huw Ask your question, Janet. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762580 60 En 2026-06-02T14:11:53 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2513&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 212 212 Janet Finch-Saunders https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=212 Finch-Saunders, Janet Yes, okay. When it comes to ALN, they are the unheard children of Wales. Will you now, as the First Minister, commit to delivering a purpose-driven curriculum that raises standards, ensuring that every young person develops the essential life skills they need to reach their own full potential? Diolch. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762583 61 En 2026-06-02T14:12:18 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2538&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun This is the first opportunity for us to have a Plaid Cymru Government, the first opportunity for us to put our principles into practice in Government. Striving for the highest possible level of education standards is a core principle, as well as a policy, of my party and of the Government that I lead. We have a proud record as a nation in the delivery of education: we're one of the first literate general populations anywhere in the world. Those standards and those levels of achievement have been allowed to slip. We will, as a Government, not turn a blind eye to that, and I hope the Member sees that, in placing this among our key priorities—education, health, job creation, cost of living, and standing up for Wales—we are serious about delivering. Already, the work has begun on that foundational literacy and numeracy plan. We expect to be held to account for our work and our record in raising standards that are long overdue in Welsh schools. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762594 62 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister B Social Care 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762596 63 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister O 12179 12179 Claire Archibald https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12179 Archibald, Claire 6. What plans does the Government have to address the ongoing issues in all areas of social care? OQ64078 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762598 64 En 2026-06-02T14:13:33 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2613&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun We will drive change across social care to tackle pressures and improve access to support. We will shift care closer to home, helping people live independently for longer. We will improve joined-up working, support unpaid carers, and set clearer national standards. To build a resilient system people can depend on, we will progress our national care service and move closer towards care that is free at the point of need. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762601 65 En 2026-06-02T14:13:57 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2637&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12179 12179 Claire Archibald https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12179 Archibald, Claire Thank you so much for your response. As a carer myself, across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion in my constituency, Labour has reduced the clinical role in our rural hospitals, but the community care to fill the gap has simply not been put in place. The result is delayed discharges, families left struggling, and many people denied the chance to spend their final days at home with their loved ones. We have providers across west Wales handing back contracts, refusing referrals and shelving expansion because they cannot recruit the workforce. So, after 26 years of Labour-led Government supported by your party, isn't it the truth that rural social care has been neglected and left to pick up the pieces? What concrete action will your Government take to restore front-line social care in west Wales? Diolch. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762604 66 En 2026-06-02T14:14:44 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2684&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun We are determined in everything that we do to deliver a more joined-up health and social care system, to reduce fragmentation and improve the patient experience. We must do everything that we can, always, to ensure consistency of care  16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762581 67 En 2026-06-02T14:15:00 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2700&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun to ensure consistency of care in all parts of Wales—call it the 'postcode lottery' if you like, whether it's your quality of care, the level of provision, we have to make sure that no area is disadvantaged. And the delivery of rural healthcare and care services is something that is particularly relevant to that. As we progress towards a national care service, we have to remember that that word 'national' means something, that that care service is something that has to be relevant and sustainable in all parts of the nation, bringing health and social care together with shared, clear accountability. And people in rural Wales should know that this Government is on their side, as people in urban areas should too.   16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762602 68 En 2026-06-02T14:15:43 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2743&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 4787 4787 Peter Fox https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=4787 Fox, Peter First Minister, we see so many people across Wales stuck in hospitals because of the lack of social care. Now, to make sure our social care system works as it needs to, in your manifesto you said there is a need for workforce expansion and pay reform. To deliver that, you will be expecting, no doubt, local government to invest more. To enable this, can our councils expect a significant uplift in their future funding, or will you be expecting councils to find this within their existing resources? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762605 69 En 2026-06-02T14:16:18 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2778&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun Local government is a key partner, as the Member knows, in the delivery of care. It was one of the reasons why we ensured, through the agreement on the budget for 2026-27, that the firmest possible foundations were laid for local government because of the significant pressures that they face on care, as with many other issues. We look forward to having those constructive relationships with local government leaders throughout Wales to deliver the sustainability that we can within the resources at our disposal. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762610 70 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister B The Hospitality Sector 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762611 71 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister O 12142 12142 Benjamin Hodge McKenna https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12142 Hodge McKenna, Benjamin 7. What action is the Welsh Government taking to support the hospitality sector to safeguard businesses and jobs? OQ64077 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762612 72 En 2026-06-02T14:17:04 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2824&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun Our manifesto included a range of specific commitments to help reinvigorate our town centres, including reform of the non-domestic rates system. We will explore how to use all the levers available to us to support a thriving, modern hospitality sector, working in collaboration with businesses and communities. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762613 73 En 2026-06-02T14:17:22 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2842&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 12142 12142 Benjamin Hodge McKenna https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12142 Hodge McKenna, Benjamin The hospitality sector in Wales generates £5 billion in economic activity, and supports sectors like sport and tourism. Alongside that, venues like pubs, restaurants and cafes act as social hubs across Wales to help combat loneliness and give people a place to meet with friends and family. The industry also employs more than 160,000 people. Like many people, my first proper job was working in a pub. The experience that that gave me helped me develop foundational skills that I carried forward through the rest of my career. Unfortunately, that pub I used to work in has now been forced to close. Like many other hospitality businesses, they simply could not cope with rising costs across the board. Will the First Minister commit today to reviewing the business rates system for all hospitality businesses in Wales to make the industry more competitive, support local businesses and grow the Welsh economy? 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762616 74 En 2026-06-02T14:18:13 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2893&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun The Member touches on many things that I certainly agree with; the role of the community pub as a third space, as it was described to me recently. You have home, you have the workplace or school perhaps, and then you have that other place where we need to congregate. It may have been chapels in days gone by, but we need to look at how we build those community hubs. Certainly, the pub can be a big part of that. We are determined, in looking at that rates issue, to put it in a wider context. Yes, we will look at what we can do around rates relief. It is a manifesto pledge of ours. The town centres taskforce, in our first 100 days, will explore the options for reformed business rates that better support high street regeneration. But we have to put it in a wider context as well. There are other measures that we're determined to take to create a new vibrancy on our high streets, including looking at how planning helps. It certainly will be one of those issues that our new national development agency will look at—how we support those businesses to thrive and, by that, bringing new life into our town centres. 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762626 75 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister B Disabled People’s Rights 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762627 76 Cy 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister O 12148 12148 Gaz Thomas https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=12148 Thomas, Gaz 8. How is the Welsh Government removing barriers to ensure disabled people’s rights are fully embedded in law and public life? OQ64080 16060 7 2026-06-02T13:30:00 762628 77 En 2026-06-02T14:19:39 http://www.senedd.tv/en/16060?startPos=2979&l=en 260602-1 1. Questions to the First Minister C 2717 2717 Rhun ap Iorwerth https://business.senedd.wales/mgUserInfo.aspx?UID=2717 First Minister of Wales ap Iorwerth, Rhun We will take forward proposals to incorporate key United Nations human rights conventions, which includes the United Nations convention on the rights of disabled people, into Welsh law. This will build on existing rights and protections, and embed international standards in the way devolved public services are designed and delivered. We're also committed to delivering a robust and action-oriented