13. Debate: Stage 4 of the Renting Homes (Amendment) (Wales) Bill

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:06 pm on 23 February 2021.

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Photo of Julie James Julie James Labour 6:06, 23 February 2021

Thank you, Deputy Presiding Officer. I would like to begin by thanking the Chairs and members of the Equality, Local Government and Communities Committee, the Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee and the Finance Committee, as well as all other Members who've contributed to the scrutiny of the Renting Homes (Amendment) (Wales) Bill. A special word of thanks also to the committee clerks, Senedd lawyers and other support staff who have worked with Welsh Government officials behind the scenes to help get this Bill through the scrutiny process during such a turbulent period, and in particular for their constructive approach over the recent weeks, which enabled us to include vitally important amendments to the Renting Homes (Fees etc.) (Wales) Act 2019 in the Bill. I extend the same thanks to Welsh Government officials who have also pulled out all the stops to get us to this point. I and my Cabinet colleagues recognise and appreciate your efforts. 

Finally, a sincere thank you to all of you from our external stakeholders and partners, those who responded to our consultation on the Bill, those who contributed evidence throughout the scrutiny process, and those who worked so tirelessly and with such dedication and commitment to the sectors and individuals they represent and support day in and day out. We will still be counting on that support and professionalism in the coming months as we move on to the work necessary to implement the most fundamental change to the rented sector in decades.

There is still much work to be done. We have a raft of subordinate legislation and guidance to put in place ahead of the coming into force of the 2016 Act, as amended by this Bill, next year, but I'm confident that, with the continued support and constructive challenge provided by our partners and stakeholders, we will get there. This Bill, alongside our other renting homes legislation, will establish fairer and more transparent arrangements for renting in Wales, and I urge all Members to support the Bill. Diolch.