8. The Public Health (Protection from Eviction) (Wales) (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:20 pm on 15 December 2020.

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Photo of Julie James Julie James Labour 4:20, 15 December 2020

Diolch, Llywydd, and my thanks to both Members who have spoken during the debate. I make no apologies for bringing forward legislation at any time that seeks to avoid people becoming homeless. But, it is of critical importance, on public health grounds, that we prevent homelessness during this particularly critical phase of the pandemic. Over the Christmas period, these regulations will play a vital role in achieving that goal.

I realise that they were made, and came into force, at short notice, using an emergency procedure, and that that has restricted the scrutiny of them. But, this is, of course, because they respond to what is an emergency situation. If they had not come into force with almost immediate effect, they would not have had the desired effect. I take the point that Delyth Jewell is making, also. We keep the regulations under constant review. We will, of course, be looking to renew them if that's necessary, if access to homelessness services and so on is further restricted after 11 January. So, I urge Members to support the motion.