Questions to the First Minister

QNR – in the Senedd on 14 February 2017.

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Photo of Rhianon Passmore Rhianon Passmore Labour

(Translated) Will the First Minister outline what action the Welsh Government is taking to support learners with additional learning needs?

Photo of Mark Drakeford Mark Drakeford Labour

The Additional Learning Needs and Education Tribunal (Wales) Bill, currently being considered by the Assembly, will replace outdated legislation and improve the support for all learners with ALN up to the age of 25. We have announced £20 million funding to support the successful implementation and delivery of the new system.

Photo of Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Labour

(Translated) Will the First Minister make a statement on support for businesses in Mid and West Wales?

Photo of Mark Drakeford Mark Drakeford Labour

(Translated)

We continue to support Mid and West Wales businesses through wide-ranging support, infrastructure investment and actions that improve business conditions.

Photo of Mr Simon Thomas Mr Simon Thomas Plaid Cymru

(Translated) What discussions have been held between the Welsh Government and Welsh universities regarding the effect of establishing a UK research and innovation body on research funding in Wales?

Photo of Mark Drakeford Mark Drakeford Labour

(Translated)

On the effect of establishing a UK research and innovation body, the Cabinet Secretary for Education, the Minister for Skills and Science and the chief scientific adviser met the UK Minister responsible and sought proper Welsh representation on UK research and innovation’s board. They made the same point to interim UKRI chair, Sir John Kingman. Discussions with universities on UKRI engagement started only recently.

Photo of Hefin David Hefin David Labour

(Translated) Will the First Minister make a statement on the value of small business incubation centres in Wales?

Photo of Mark Drakeford Mark Drakeford Labour

I welcome the positive impact of incubators and open space for entrepreneurs. As a Government we remain committed to the vital importance of innovation-driven entrepreneurship and appreciate the importance of providing space, community and support for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Photo of Adam Price Adam Price Plaid Cymru

(Translated) Will the First Minister make a statement on the future of the Wales Ambulance Service Trust's clinical contact centres?

Photo of Mark Drakeford Mark Drakeford Labour

(Translated)

The configuration of clinical contact centres is an operational matter for the Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust. I am aware that WAST has begun an engagement process with staff to consider options for the future configuration of services in west Wales. No decision has yet been taken.

Photo of Paul Davies Paul Davies Conservative

(Translated) Will the First Minister make a statement on the Welsh Government's priorities for health services in west Wales?

Photo of Mark Drakeford Mark Drakeford Labour

(Translated)

Our priority is to provide the people of west Wales with health services that deliver the best possible outcomes for patients. We will be guided by the best and most up-to-date clinical evidence and advice to deliver high-quality care that the people of west Wales deserve.

Photo of Llyr Gruffydd Llyr Gruffydd Plaid Cymru

(Translated) Will the First Minister make a statement on the future of the water industry in Wales?

Photo of Mark Drakeford Mark Drakeford Labour

(Translated)

Our water strategy for Wales sets out our long-term policy direction for water in Wales. Lesley Griffiths AM, Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs, meets regularly with stakeholders across the Welsh water industry to discuss all aspects of water and sewerage services.