4. 3. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:56 pm on 23 May 2017.

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Photo of Jane Hutt Jane Hutt Labour 2:56, 23 May 2017

Thank you very much, Simon Thomas, for informing us of the outcome of the Petitions Committee decision to propose a debate, and of course, helping that petition to such an extent that it now crosses the threshold. It will be a new development, as you say, for us to debate this, particularly focusing on live music and current local situations. Indeed, following the written statement made by the Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs last week on the planning issues, that means there will be one fewer opposition debate tomorrow afternoon.

In terms of UEFA and preparation, the Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure will be making a written statement this week to update on security and transport issues in preparing for UEFA the weekend after next. You of course are aware that, as the First Minister said, he received a security briefing this morning linked to the COBRA discussions, and that indeed will have taken on board the important event that is forthcoming. Again, it’s very important that we make it very clear about the welcome to Wales, and the opportunities, and that we’re here to ensure that people are safe, secure and indeed welcome for that major event for Wales, which will place us again in the world’s eye in terms of our hospitality, our efficiency, our security and indeed our transport links. So, it’s very appropriate anyway for the Cabinet Secretary to make that statement, which he will do.

On your third question, yes, the report from the committee has been published in terms of their inquiry into bovine TB, and the recommendations they make and the evidence they took. Indeed, the Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs will be making a statement in the very near future in terms of the way forward, and it’s important that it will follow, of course, that committee report.

On your fourth question, I think the Cabinet Secretary for Communities and Children—well, I don’t think he’s aware of being informed by the DWP through his officials that decisions have been made. But I think it’s very important that this is on record today. Clearly, we have official links with DWP and I’m sure our Welsh Government officials will want to clarify the point. I’m sure union engagement, as well, in terms of the impact on staff and their fears and concerns, particularly at this pre-election period—that should be addressed.