Thank you, Dirprwy Lywydd. I welcome the opportunity to contribute to this debate on the financial resolution in respect of the Senedd and Elections (Wales) Bill, as the Member in charge of this Bill.

The financial implications of the legislation were outlined in the regulatory impact assessment that was published alongside the Bill when it was introduced, but, in accordance with Standing Orders, updated costs in the amended assessment will be laid after Stage 2 to include any amendments made to the Bill.

At the Finance Committee’s request, this update will also include an estimate of the Welsh Government's costs for raising awareness of votes at 16 and 17 years of age, which were referred to in the original impact assessment as currently unknown figures. The explanatory memorandum will also be updated to reflect any amendments agreed with regard to the Electoral Commission and its accountability and scrutiny arrangements.

I wish to thank the Finance Committee for its recent consideration of the Counsel General's proposed amendments on this matter, and for the relevant report by the committee, which was compiled in just two days. Now, without a shadow of a doubt, this will be of assistance to Members as they consider today's financial resolution and the amendments tabled that are to be considered next week under the Stage 2 process.

With regard to the costs of the amendments in respect of the Electoral Commission, the Counsel General has written to the Finance Committee to outline the financial implications of the amendments he intends to table. I am content as well that these are our best estimate of the costs for the Assembly Commission. Of course, a wide range of other amendments have been tabled, and some of these have significant cost implications. But bearing in mind all of these implications with regard to cost, I continue to be of the opinion that the benefits of the policy position enshrined in the Bill to the people of Wales represents value for money, and I urge the Assembly this afternoon to approve this resolution.