8. What action is the Welsh Government taking to improve transport in south-east Wales? OQ56468

Llywydd, we are already taking forward many of the suggestions made by the Burns commission. Its ambitious set of recommendations will lead to significant transport improvements for the region. The interim report of the Hendy review highlights the case for improvements to the south Wales main line, as proposed by the commission.

Thank you. First Minister, last week, in response to my question on Newport City Council's support for a referendum for an M4 relief road, the Minister for Housing and Local Government said,

'If there is a call for a local referendum, then we're certainly happy to work with Newport council to see how that might be accomplished.'

Julie James then went on to say she was all in favour of local people having a large say in what happens in their region or area. You've told us today how important local democracy is to you, First Minister. So, therefore, would you hold a referendum on an M4 relief road, as called for by Newport council?

Llywydd, I don't have anything to add to what my colleague has already told the Member on that matter. I'm very glad though to hear her conversion to local decision making. She will feel as aggrieved as I do, therefore, that Ministers in her Government in London continually pretend that they have powers to make decisions in relation to an M4 relief road—they don't. Those decisions are properly made here, and the Member's conversion to that is very welcome.

Thank you, First Minister.