7. Will the Minister make a statement on the Welsh Government's national strategy for the management of natural resources? OAQ53841

Thank you. I published the natural resources policy in August 2017. This was the second statutory product of the Environment (Wales) Act 2016. The focus of the natural resources policy is the sustainable management of Wales's natural resources, to maximise their contribution to achieving goals within the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015.

One of the huge opportunities that our natural resources afford us is recreational opportunities that are linked in with the ambitious plans to improve tourism here in Wales. Our forests, I think, are one part of our natural resources that are underutilised for tourism and recreation purposes. We're very fortunate in north Wales, both in the Llandegla forest and in and around the Clocaenog forest, to enjoy some wonderful mountain biking opportunities, which are growing in their popularity. What work is the Welsh Government doing to support those very small organisations, very often, that are trying to open up further opportunities for mountain biking in particular in Welsh forests where Natural Resources Wales are managing them?

Thank you. I think you make a very important point about our forests and you'll be aware that one of the First Minister's manifesto commitments was to bring forward a national forest. At the moment, he and I are going to consider options as to how we bring that forward. Obviously, I know Llandegla forest very well, I live not far from it, and certainly the extra funding it brings into the economy, for instance, with the mountain bike centre and other facilities is to be welcomed. I think I can certainly continue to work with my colleague the Deputy Minister for Culture, Sport and Tourism to see what else we can do to enhance that.

Question 8 [OAQ53846] was withdrawn, even though the Member Caroline Jones is in the Chamber to have asked it. 

Question 9, Dai Lloyd.