2. What discussions has the Minister had with major supermarkets regarding the impact of COVID-19 on the food sector in Wales? OQ55504

Thank you. I regularly meet with representatives from each of the main supermarkets. I am reassured robust systems are in place to maintain adequate food supplies. The supermarkets have been made very aware of their role in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic through maintaining adequate social distancing measures. Local authority sanctions will be used if necessary.

I'd like to read the Minister a comment on my Facebook page, which I've had, which is reflective of many comments I've had. This is from a constituent: 

'Can anyone answer this question for me please? Just 10 minutes ago I went to Morrison's Caerphilly. Whilst shopping I saw four people all not wearing masks except around their necks. I drew this matter to the attention of the store security, who said, "We have no authority to enforce the issue". I am now very confused in that the Welsh Government and the council have said the wearing of masks in shops is mandatory.'

I've also had similar reflected views from constituents talking about similar situations in Tesco, Asda and Aldi in my e-mail inbox, and it does raise concerns. As the Minister responsible for relations with the major supermarkets during the pandemic, what is the Welsh Government doing to ensure that the major supermarkets enforce COVID safety measures so that people who are contacting me can feel safe when shopping? 

Thank you. You raise a very important point and a point that has filled my inbox with many e-mails from members of the public and from Members of the Senedd certainly over the summer recess. I mentioned that I regularly meet with the main retailers. Probably it was about every two weeks in the beginning; it's now about every four weeks. They assure me that they have social distancing measures in place and, of course, there is a geographical spread here. It's not just Caerphilly; it's right across Wales. I've had complaints as have all the main supermarkets. Officials are also in direct contact with retailers and they've shared guidance and addressed queries. 

I mentioned, again, in my opening answer to you, Hefin David, that enforcement of the coronavirus regulations and guidance is a function for local authorities. I know many local authorities across Wales have done visits to supermarkets to make sure those measures are in place. But I think it's also a good opportunity to remind people of their responsibility as individuals as they too visit supermarkets and make sure that they are wearing face coverings and adhering to the 2m. And I think, again, over the last couple of days, I've had some concerns raised with me that people feel that perhaps wearing a face covering lulls people into a false sense of security, and whilst face coverings are now mandatory in supermarkets, please also remember the 2m social distancing measure.