2. What discussions has the Counsel General had with cabinet colleagues in developing legislative proposals to deliver vehicle emission reductions? OAQ54325

Welsh legislative powers do not extend to regulating vehicle emissions. However, the Government supports the use of challenging new vehicle standards to reduce emissions from transport and the Government is acting in areas where it has competence and has consulted on the clean air framework to lead local government actions to improve air quality and reduce emissions.

Thank you very much for that response. As you’ve said, clearly there is a range of legislative options available to the Welsh Government in pursuing this agenda. You will be aware that the UK Government, on 15 July, announced its intention to introduce legislation that makes it a requirement to put charging points for electric vehicles in all new homes in England, as part of efforts to reduce emissions by 2050. The proposals include changing building regulations for new residential buildings to provide for electric charging points and for infrastructure for charging points in non-residential buildings. So, what discussions have you been having within the Welsh Government on the best legislative route to secure similar outcomes here in Wales?

Well, I won’t elaborate on any legal discussions, for reasons that the Member will understand fully, I believe. But the question of the steps that Welsh Government can take to secure a low-carbon society is a very lively discussion that is held often within Welsh Government. I would refer the Member to the ‘Prosperity for All: A Low Carbon Wales’ policy document, which describes in detail the wide range of steps that the Government is taking at the moment, and the steps we intend to look at in future in this area and in other relevant areas.