Questions Without Notice from the Party Leaders

Part of 2. Questions to the First Minister – in the Senedd at 2:38 pm on 15 January 2019.

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Photo of Gareth Bennett Gareth Bennett UKIP 2:38, 15 January 2019

Diolch, Llywydd. And can I also take the opportunity to add my condolences to the family of Steffan Lewis?

First Minister, this is the time of year when many people have to complete their tax returns, and, therefore, the subject of taxation is in their minds. Of course, we know that governments wouldn't function if we didn't have taxation, but I would add, from my own observation, that most ordinary people are rarely enthusiastic about the prospect of taxes, and particularly of new or additional taxation. I did notice, in your previous role as the Finance Minister, you did seem to get quite excited about the Welsh Government's new tax powers. I quote what you said at one point:

'It's what devolution was always meant to be: a living laboratory in which different parts of the United Kingdom are able to try out new ideas, to learn from one another, to see what is effective.'

Do you still believe that here in Wales we are all part of a living laboratory? And do you think, First Minister, that all Welsh residents should happily accept new taxes and tax increases from your Welsh Government because we are all part of some exciting experiment?