The well-being of future generations Act has been lauded internationally, and rightfully so. It's a groundbreaking piece of legislation that has the potential to transform our country for the better. Who could argue with legislation that enshrines seven cross-cutting well-being goals of prosperity, resilience, health, equality, cohesive communities, a vibrant culture with a thriving Welsh language, and finally a global, responsible Wales? In terms of a wish list for Wales, it's hard to fault it. I also think it's important for devolution that we have a point of difference that demonstrates that we can do things differently and better here in Wales. This Act, on paper at least, certainly does that.

However, as is often the case with legislation, the best of intentions are often let down by the execution. Unfortunately, that is what we have seen with the well-being of future generations Act. The Senedd's Public Accounts Committee, which reported in March of this year, found that the Act's radical ambitions have not been met with the necessary culture change across public bodies. Also, these public bodies have not done enough to build awareness of the shift to sustainable development across public services.

Such an ambitious piece of legislation also requires ambitious funding, but that has not been the case. Short funding cycles and late funding announcements have made it difficult for public bodies to plan, work together, and make the most of the resources they have. Nor has the future generations commissioner's budget been sufficient to allow their office to provide enough of the practical support that public bodies need to implement the Act. I acknowledge that Brexit has made matters worse for the Act's implementation as it has made it harder for public bodies to plan for an uncertain future.

I'm pleased to see that, in today's statement, there are several measures that have been taken to get things back on track. I welcome the bringing together of public bodies to discuss sustainable development and emissions through a national forum. The intention to draw up the first set of national milestones within the Act by the end of the year is also to be lauded. Looking to widen the scope of the Act to include more public bodies is also a positive move. I hope, together, your measures will address some of the shortfalls that have been identified as preventing the legislation meeting its full potential. 

If we are to achieve the seven goals, we will need to see more action on a range of policy areas. Until we see further progress in tackling matters like the housing crisis, the destruction of our environment and the awful rate of child poverty, the well-being of future generations Act will not be brought to life. Diolch.