Thank you for your statement—one of many on a similar theme over recent weeks and months. You entitled this 'a distinct approach to the penal system in Wales', although it looks uncannily similar to the developing policy agenda across the border in England also.

As you've heard me say previously, I, in August, attended the HM Prison and Probation Service in Wales's engagement event in Wrexham to discuss the proposals contained in the 'Strengthening probation, building confidence' consultation paper. We heard that, in Wales, the proposals consulted on are that, from 2020, all offender management services will be back within the National Probation Service and that HM Prison and Probation Service in Wales will explore options for the commissioning of rehabilitative services, such as interventions and community payback. We heard that the consultation outlined plans to stabilise probation services and improve offender supervision and through-the-gate services and that, key to your statement,