2. Business Statement and Announcement

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 2:35 pm on 21 November 2017.

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Photo of Julie James Julie James Labour 2:35, 21 November 2017

Well, thank you very much for that question. It gives me the opportunity to say, of course, that I'm delighted that the centre is doing so well in Swansea University, which, Llywydd, I should say is in the heart of my own constituency, in case Members aren't aware. Research across Wales, actually, is punching well above its weight, and we should be very proud of the significant work done in this particular area, by both the British Heart Foundation and by the cardiovascular research team at Swansea University. I think maintaining such partnerships, and our investment in research delivery in health settings, is a really important factor in Wales's ability to punch well above its weight in this regard. Again, in my previous role, myself and the Cabinet Secretary for health had numerous discussions about how we might optimise the results of research findings into actual treatments, and into advances in Wales in particular areas, including cardiovascular heart disease. There are a whole series of specialities that arise from some of the cutting-edge research that you saw, which I would urge other Members to go and have a look at if they haven't had a chance, because it is extremely impressive. I think, once the new ministerial portfolios have bedded in, there will be an opportunity to have some sort of debate or statement on the floor of this house around research and its inter-relationship with health. And I'll be sure to make sure that both Ministers take forward this research and visit the facility as soon as possible.