10. Debate: The Equality and Human Rights Commission's Wales Committee Annual Review 2017-2018

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 7:07 pm on 6 November 2018.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Jeremy Miles Jeremy Miles Labour 7:07, 6 November 2018

Well, the Member will have heard me say in my speech that, despite the investment in support services, there is still a mountain to climb and that remains our position. We recognise that, whilst the work we are doing is having an impact, there is more that we can and we must do, and that is reflected, I think, in the contribution that I made at the start in my opening remarks. We don't yet have a clear picture as to whether the issue around refuges is due to underfunding or whether it's because funding has not been directed at services that have the greatest impact, but we absolutely recognise these issues need to be addressed urgently, and the First of Minister, in fact, will be making an announcement about this on 12 November.

We support amendment 4. Both Leanne Wood and John Griffiths spoke on the themes of this amendment. Breaking the cycle of deprivation and poverty is a long-term commitment for Welsh Government, which is only exacerbated by the UK Government's welfare reforms. We are moving in the right direction. Our child poverty legislation, our support for fair work, the new economic contract and the real living wage all underline our commitment to tackling poverty and inequality. Nevertheless, we know we need to do more if we are to make a real and lasting difference. And, as I said in my opening speech, officials have already been tasked with looking at the options around enacting the socioeconomic duty in Wales, which a number of Members have raised in their contributions.

We also support amendment 5. The Welsh Government has made clear our commitment to promoting and protecting human rights and making sure it's embedded, as it is, in the founding legislation of the Welsh Government and, indeed, in all that we do, and despite the way that the UK Government is handling Brexit negotiations. The Government of Wales Act 2006 makes specific provision in relation to international obligations. Section 82 gives the Secretary of State intervention powers in relation to action by the Welsh Ministers that he or she considers to be incompatible with such an obligation. The Welsh Government continues to have high regard for the international human rights treaties and UN conventions to which the UK is a state party signatory. We seek to reflect both the spirit and the substance of each convention across our policies and programmes, as appropriate, at all times.

I'll close the debate by once again thanking the Equality and Human Rights Commission. For the past 10 years, the commission has worked alongside the public sector, the private sector and the third sector to tackle inequality and injustice in Wales. Year on year, the commission has delivered a distinct and relevant work programme to reflect the unique political, legal and social landscape of Wales. The commission is a critical friend to the National Assembly for Wales, here to guide us all and bring about positive change. We look forward to working with them in the future and continuing our positive and productive relationship.