Advice services are vital in helping those who are struggling with personal debt. We remain committed to ensuring there is access to free, high quality and independent debt and money management advice across Wales.  

The impact of the change to stamp duty land tax is being assessed. The introduction of a new relief must be evidence based, reach the intended target and be cost effective. The proposed LTT rates already remove around 70 per cent of first time buyers from tax.

We have identified several areas that may be impacted, including workforce, research and innovation, regulation of medicines and devices, public health, disease prevention and reciprocal healthcare arrangements. We are working with the NHS Confederation and Social Care Wales to assess the scale of impact and contingency options.

We are absolutely determined to spread prosperity, growth and jobs across all parts of Wales. Delivering a modern efficient and integrated public transport network is a cornerstone of our approach to improving Wales’ long-term economic prosperity.

I met recently with the  Secretary of State for Justice regarding the wider justice agenda. In addition, there has and continues to be extensive engagement with the MoJ and HMI Prisons regarding the secure estate in Wales.  This includes regular meetings between the portfolio Cabinet Secretary and the Chief Inspector of Prisons; the next meeting is scheduled for the New Year.