9. Will the First Minister outline what the Welsh Government is doing to support the agricultural industry in Pembrokeshire? OAQ51304

Well, for example, over 1,400 people in Pembrokeshire are signed up to Farming Connect to learn more about improving the profitability, competitiveness and environmental performance of their businesses. Of course, we still urge the United Kingdom Government to ensure that there won't be any barriers to the ability of the farmers of Pembrokeshire to sell in the single market.

One way to support the agricultural industry in Pembrokeshire is not to introduce nitrate vulnerable zones in Wales. Given the importance of this issue and the negative impact that such a policy could have on the agricultural industry, can you give us an update on the Welsh Government plans for nitrate vulnerable zones in Wales? And can you confirm that a statement on this issue will be made to this Chamber, and when will that happen?

There were very many representations made—over 250. They are more detailed than would usually be expected in this situation, and a summary of all those will be published erelong. The review of the NVZ is statutory under the nitrates directive, and, of course, that has to be considered in the context of pollution as well. So, striking the balance is what's vital here. Of course, we want to ensure that the decision that is made ensures that we do strike that balance between reducing pollution and, of course, ensuring that any changes are not excessive in relation to farming.

Finally, Simon Thomas.

Thank you, Llywydd. Your Cabinet Secretary for finance and local government told the External Affairs and Additional Legislation Committee yesterday that you were close to agreeing a framework for agriculture as we exit the European Union. Farmers in Pembrokeshire and elsewhere will be very interested in understanding what that framework is, and what that agreement entails. When will we hear those details, rather than just rumours in a committee?

Well, once the framework is agreed, then I will announce it, of course, to the Assembly. But it's no secret what our position as a Government is: namely, first, that the powers should come to the rightful place, namely this Assembly, secondly, that nothing should change without an agreement to change, and, thirdly, that we must ensure that the same amount of money is available to make the payments as at present, and those payments should be made to the Welsh Government in the same way as at present. It wouldn't be right if those payments came to us through the Barnett formula. It would be a huge cut to the budget. So, that's the stance we have taken and, of course, that is the stance that has steered us through these discussions.

Thank you, First Minister.