Thursday 28 March was the eightieth anniversary of one of the great heroic acts during the Spanish civil war. On that day, Welshman and Cardiffian Captain Archibald Dickson rescued and saved the lives of 2,638 men, women and children fleeing Spain and General Franco’s approaching fascist troops. A blockade of the port of Alicante by Italian destroyers and the threat of German bombers led to scenes of chaos and desperation. Captain Dickson of the SS Stanbrook, witnessing these tragic scenes, in an act of utmost bravery, left his cargo behind and instead took on board the refugees. Ten minutes into the journey came the sound of explosions, and bombs landed near the Stanbrook, yet Captain Dickson broke the blockade, undoubtedly saving many lives.

In Alicante, there is a memorial plaque to Captain Dickson in Spanish, Welsh and English. Last week, on Sunday 31 March, a public civic event took place in Alicante to remember and commemorate these events. A statement of recognition and solidarity from the First Minister of Wales was read out, recognising the many Welsh men and women of the international brigade who fought fascism in Spain and saying,

'There is no greater act of solidarity than when one person risks their life for their fellow citizen.'

Plans are under way to locate a commemorative plaque, identical to the one in Alicante, near the Assembly in recognition of the deeds of Captain Dickson and in solidarity with the people of Alicante. I am delighted that the First Minister has pledged his support, and I know I can count on this Assembly to give its full support to this project.