In 2015-16, authorities collected 97.2 per cent of council tax billed—the highest level since the tax was introduced. Nevertheless, circumstances remain challenging for households and I encourage authorities to continue to deal sensitively with those experiencing hardship. The Welsh Government has commissioned research into approaches that help prevent debt escalating.

I published the 2017-18 provisional settlement, including the proposed allocation for Torfaen, on 19 October. The settlement is now out for consultation, prior to making a final determination in December.

In the limited time available, I considered a range of options for supporting businesses affected by the revaluation. Our fully funded, £10 million transitional relief scheme is targeted at those most affected. Unlike the scheme in England, it will not penalise ratepayers whose liability is reducing.

The Welsh Government is fully aligned with the need for innovative solutions to the delivery of public services. We work with local government in a variety of ways to that end, for examples through invest-to-save and innovate-to-save schemes and through the multi-agency effective services group, chaired by Jeff Farah, chief constable of Gwent.

The provision of tax services in Wales has been a regular feature of discussions with HMRC, particularly in the context of tax devolution.

It is the responsibility of all the public services under the Act to contribute toward all of the Goals. All of the Welsh Government’s 14 well-being objectives, published on 4 November, are designed to contribute to multiple goals, including the goal of ‘A resilient Wales’.