Diolch. Building safety, and the safety of residents, is a high priority for this Government. Safe homes are the foundation on which any modern society thrives. People have a fundamental right to feel safe in their homes. In Wales, we have a good record of fire safety. Latest figures show the number of accidental dwelling fires in Wales is at an all-time low. Furthermore, we have seen this number fall faster here than elsewhere in Great Britain. The overall chance of any dwelling experiencing a fire is low, at around one in 1,000 per year. Whilst the statistics are positive, the harm that fires cause, both in terms of injury and loss of property, is devastating. The data also shows that over three quarters of dwelling fires are caused by unsafe behaviour, not unsafe products or premises. No system of regulation can address that.

Wales also has by far the most widespread and most generous programme of home fire safety checks in Great Britain. The preventative work undertaken by our fire and rescue services has improved fire safety in our homes significantly. However, there is no room for complacency. We must continue to make improvements where we can, whilst working towards an improved and comprehensive building safety system, from the design and construction of buildings through to their occupation.

Next week we will see the publication of the first report of the public inquiry into the Grenfell Tower fire. It will cover the events on the night of the fire itself and the actions of the main responders, in particular the London Fire Brigade and the Metropolitan Police. Any findings or recommendations it makes will primarily be a matter for those organisations, but we will be examining the report closely to identify any implications and lessons for Wales.

Since my last oral statement on building safety in May, the building safety programme board has been established and is progressing the recommendations from 'A Road Map to safer buildings in Wales'. Many of these reforms are long-term changes that will require new primary legislation. I will publish my White Paper on proposals for the reformed building safety system next year. However, there is much that can be done in the short and medium term to improve fire safety.