4. Will the Deputy Minister outline the Welsh Government's priorities during the remainder of this Senedd term for creating a more equal Wales? OQ55334

As we come out of the COVID lockdown period, the Welsh Government will continue to keep equality at the heart of its actions. Equality forms one of the three pillars of the First Minister’s framework for recovery, and this will be supported by legislative, research and engagement activities.

Thank you, Deputy Minister. It's been really positive to see the peaceful demonstrations of solidarity for Black Lives Matter, and I've been very, very impressed by the numbers of younger people in particular contacting me about this issue. One question they all ask is around the role of education in tackling racism and promoting equality. I know that work is ongoing with Race Council Cymru, for example, on the history part of the new curriculum, but what discussions have you had with the Minister for Education about these issues more generally within the new curriculum and, in particular, the promotion of a diverse range of authors within the literacy element?

The events that I'm sure we've all been aware of and taken part in virtually—events that I've been engaged in organised by Race Council Cymru and also the report that's been published this week, a report on the socioeconomic factors in terms of disproportionate impact on BAME people and communities—are fundamental to taking us forward to address these issues.

As the First Minister mentioned when that report was published on Monday, Welsh Government's working with Estyn to ensure that their review of Welsh history takes full account of Welsh and wider BAME history, identity and culture. And the education Minister is going to shortly announce a working group to oversee the development of those learning resources. Of course, that includes those black authors and I do thank the Member's constituents for raising this as well, at this important time of Black Lives Matter and addressing these issues. 

I thank the Deputy Minister.