2. Statement by the First Minister: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 1:50 pm on 20 May 2020.

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Photo of Paul Davies Paul Davies Conservative 1:50, 20 May 2020

Well, I put it to you, First Minister, that it is important in any plan that people are given hope when the restrictions start being lifted, and giving an indication of timescales I don't believe is unreasonable.

Now let me turn instead to areas where you have, thankfully, changed your policy. I welcome the news, of course, that the Welsh Government has finally reversed its decision and will be taking part in a UK-wide portal scheme. This means key workers in Wales will be on a level playing field with their counterparts in other parts of the UK in the fight against COVID-19. It's also good to hear that the Welsh Government has changed its policy on testing in care homes, and now testing will be extended to all care home residents and staff in Wales. And I'm pleased that you've listened to my party's calls, and I hope that you'll publish the specific clinical and scientific evidence that has led to this change in policy, so the people of Wales can have confidence in the Welsh Government's decisions.

Now, moving forward, the Welsh Government has made it clear that its 'Test Trace Protect' programme must become operational by the end of the month in order for lockdown restrictions to start being lifted. First Minister, given that the Government would need to increase its testing capacity for those in hospital, care homes and key workers to about 20,000 by the end of the month—and, let's be clear, you've not met a testing target you've set so far—how confident are you that you'll actually reach this one?