2. 2. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:36 pm on 17 October 2017.

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Photo of Jane Hutt Jane Hutt Labour 2:36, 17 October 2017

Thank you, Joyce Watson. And can I just say, in terms of responding to your first question, that animal welfare is a priority for the Welsh Government, and the Wales animal health and welfare framework group, obviously, indicates that commitment? We have noted the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs announcement in terms of the increased maximum sentence for animal cruelty in England from six months to five years. We’re aware of the Scottish Government as well, in terms of their commitment.

But, again, back to our commitment as a Welsh Government, the way we treat animals is an important reflection of the values of our society. Animals should be protected from pain, injury, fear and distress, and those who commit the worst acts of animal cruelty should face tough punishment. So, the Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs is giving consideration to all options for Wales, to ensure clarity for enforcement agencies, the courts, and the people of Wales.

I’m very glad also that you’ve brought a question for business statement about the fact that tomorrow is Anti-slavery Day. I think we are wearing the badges today, those of us who perhaps have engaged. I think we should pay tribute to Joyce Watson for her role, back in 2010, as she produced a report on trafficking, which actually did lead directly to the Welsh Government becoming the first, and sadly only country in the UK to appoint an anti-slavery co-ordinator. And it’s good to hear there was such an excellent turnout at your meeting this morning, receiving yet another updated report, which I referred to on Friday, at the Bawso annual lecture, which was on human trafficking and human rights issues, which of course was well attended. Our anti-slavery co-ordinator attended that meeting and answered questions. We have a Wales anti-slavery leadership group, providing strategic leadership and guidance on how we tackle slavery in Wales, also to provide the best possible support for survivors. The role of the third sector was very clear there, in terms of Bawso’s leadership role, and Women’s Aid, and the other organisations that were there.

But also we are sharing and learning with other partners, including UK Government departments, the UK independent anti-slavery commissioner, and looking at—. We provide training as well—three-day joint training provision for law enforcement senior investigating officers, and Crown prosecutors and Crown advocates. And also you mentioned refugees. We’re working with partners to provide support for refugees coming to Wales, which will help mitigate the risk of exploitation. So, this is about us leading to an increase in the number of reported cases, which you’ve reflected on. And it is through improved reporting that we can help ensure that victims receive the support they need, and that perpetrators can be brought to justice.