6. Debate: The Welsh Language Commissioner's Annual Report 2018-19

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:33 pm on 5 November 2019.

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Photo of Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Baroness Mair Eluned Morgan Labour 5:33, 5 November 2019

(Translated)

I don't like this language of threats and that this is going to be entirely negative. I do think that we have to ensure that we work in a positive manner in relation to the Welsh language. That's why we have recently been ensuring that we are doing more to have a full understanding of the link between the Welsh language and the economy. We've been doing far more work in that area recently, because we are concerned about the situation surrounding Brexit. And that is, of course, something that we have to recognise. But then, of course, that does have an impact on the timetable in terms of introducing standards. But we have said clearly, as I've already said, that these new standards for the water industry will be introduced next year.

But, in terms of the new regime, that is a matter for the commissioner. We have not intervened. Of course, we want to see things moving more swiftly, and we want something that is simplified, because that was the evidence that was received by the committee of which you were a member. Simplification of the system was something that came through very, very clearly in those inquiries. So, of course, it's a matter for the commissioner; we won't intervene in anything in relation to regulation when it comes to the commissioner's responsibility. But may I just say that we do welcome this report from Aled Roberts? I do think that he's made an exceptionally good start, and we do hope that that collaboration will continue for the future. Thank you.