10. Will the Welsh Government provide an update on its work to protect and promote the historic environment in Wales? OAQ55241

The Welsh Government promotes the unique character and value of our historic environment to the people of Wales and the world. Cadw identifies nationally important historic assets, accords them legal protection and works with public bodies and private owners to secure their sustainable management. Clearly, the priorities of this sector are being reviewed in the light of the coronavirus outbreak.  

Thank you for your answer, Minister. It's my very firm belief that we have one of the best heritage sectors in the world here in Wales, both in terms of its cultural significance and the benefits that it brings to the Welsh economy as well. So, could you outline for me, please, a little further the kind of guidance that you've been giving to that sector to guide them through the coronavirus outbreak?

The Deputy Presiding Officer (Ann Jones) took the Chair.

Thank you. Well, I can report that all Cadw sites—all 24 of them—have now been closed. The museums that fall under the responsibility of the Welsh Government are also closed. The National Library of Wales has also closed its doors and we are, of course, in regular contact with them.

We're also in regular contact with the Welsh Museums Federation and associations. And, of course, those have to make decisions for themselves, but if they were following the UK guidance, which has been set out—that there shouldn't be people congregating in big numbers—then, obviously, they need to take that into consideration as well.