Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:02 pm on 5 November 2019.
Therefore, perhaps the First Minister could tell us a bit about the impact that devolving criminal justice could have on the border between Wales and England and tell us what discussions are already taking place on this specific issue.
Now, the First Minister will also be aware of some of the valid concerns over the capacity needed to deliver an effective criminal justice system. Currently, prisons in Wales do not offer integrated drug treatment systems, and we know from only last month the Welsh Government's advisory panel on substance misuse has failed to meet in the last year. Indeed, nearly half of people referred for substance misuse rehabilitation in Wales are treated in England, and, despite the Welsh Government ring-fencing £50 million for health boards, excellent centres around Wales are closing. As well as positive centres for rehabilitation, Wales is clearly lacking in suitable facilities for our prisoners, as today's news reports confirm. Therefore, what preparatory work has the Welsh Government already done to ensure that Wales has the resources and capacity to deliver a criminal justice system that can actually operate effectively?
Llywydd, as the public conversation surrounding devolving criminal justice continues to grow, it's more important than ever that Wales has an effective relationship with the UK Ministry of Justice, and so it falls on the Welsh Government to proactively encourage greater engagement to ensure that decisions that affect Wales reflect our country's circumstances. Perhaps the First Minister could update us on how the Welsh Government is ensuring that that is the case.
Therefore, in closing, can I thank the First Minister for his statement? Whilst there are certainly some very interesting points and recommendations made by the commission, the First Minister won't be surprised that we remain unconvinced that a full-scale devolution of justice is the right way forward for Wales, but I look forward to seeing further announcements by the Welsh Government, going forward.