I have always been clear, a 'no deal' Brexit would be catastrophic for our agricultural sector and rural communities, which will bear the brunt of any loss of markets. Crashing out of the European Union without a deal would be hugely damaging and must be avoided at all costs.

This scheme was established as part of our budget settlement with Plaid Cymru. I am pleased that 110 young people into agriculture applicants have been offered contracts providing each with £40,000 in support towards developing their business. A further 40 applications are being developed and are expected to be agreed this month.

We have published guidance for planning authorities on assessing the impacts of different renewable energy technologies, including solar. We need solar power projects to deliver clearer benefits to those in their local communities. We will work with communities through the Welsh Government energy service to seek to do this.

The UK Government is currently responsible for assessments in relation to nuclear energy production. However, from 1 April Welsh Government will be responsible for the consenting of energy projects of less than 350 MW and we are currently gathering the evidence required to develop an appropriate small nuclear policy.

In June 2018, I met with members of the Menai Strait Fishery Order Management Association, the applicants for a several Order in the western Menai straits. My officials subsequently met with representatives from MSFOMA in September 2018. Since then, there has been regular telephone contact with members of the MSFOMA board. 

The Wales animal health and welfare framework implementation plan sets out Welsh Government priorities across Wales. I updated Plenary on plans to improve animal welfare in my oral statements in June and November. With Brexit on the horizon, we will review priorities to ensure the welfare of animals in Wales remains paramount. 

I remain strongly committed to introducing a Wales agriculture Bill during this Assembly term. As I have stated previously, it is my ambition to bring forward a Bill as soon as practicable, subject to Cabinet decisions on the future legislative programme.