The next item is a motion under Standing Order 9.1 to agree to the First Minister's recommendation to Her Majesty of a person for appointment as Counsel General. I call on the First Minister to formally move the motion. 

Motion NDM7688 Mark Drakeford

To propose that the Senedd, in accordance with Standing Order 9.1, agrees to the First Minister's recommendation to Her Majesty to appoint Mick Antoniw MS as Counsel General.

Motion moved.

Well, it's a pleasure to do so, Llywydd, and I formally move. 

Mick Antoniw. 

Thank you, Llywydd, and thank you to the First Minister for the nomination. I wish to pay tribute to Jeremy Miles who was in this role before me. Thank you to Jeremy Miles for his hard work in developing and promoting a legal jurisdiction for Wales and for defending the constitutional status of this Senedd on behalf of the people of Wales. Over the past few years, since Brexit and as a result of the pandemic, people have come to realise and understand better how important the work of this Senedd is. 

The pandemic, Llywydd, has drawn into sharp focus the influence and impact that the laws made here, in this Senedd, have upon the people of Wales's every day lives. The full impact of the devolution settlement has been recognised both here in Wales and across the United Kingdom. This Senedd and the legislative responsibilities that we are here to exercise have taken place in front and centre in the minds of the Welsh population. I look forward to playing my part in helping the Senedd and the Welsh Government meet the challenges and difficulties we will face over the coming months and years. I will, as always, work to defend and strengthen the integrity of our constitutional role as a Parliament for the people of Wales, our Welsh democracy and the rule of law. Diolch, Llywydd. 

Does the First Minister wish to reply? Perhaps not. No, and therefore the proposal is to agree the motion. Does any Member object? No. The motion is therefore agreed in accordance with Standing Order 12.36.  

Motion agreed in accordance with Standing Order 12.36.