Diolch yn fawr, Llywydd. I want to be clear that the Welsh Labour Government has not suggested the introduction of this measure lightly; it has been challenging for us, because we wanted to think through very carefully what were the practical, what were the legal, what were the ethical implications of introducing a pass of this type. But we understand our public health responsibilities, and we understand that we are facing some of the highest COVID rates that we have seen since the beginning of the pandemic, particularly amongst young people—over 1,000 cases per 100,000. And we know that we've got to do something to stop the turbocharging in terms of the spread of the virus in these places where lots of people congregate. And you want evidence to show that that happens: well, we know how many Welsh young people came back from Cornwall, from Boardmasters Festival, and spread the virus here; we know how many came back from Reading and spread the virus here. We know that we've got to do something to address this situation.

And let me remind the Tories—[Interruption.] Let me remind the Tories—[Interruption.] I'm sorry, but I am responding to the debate. Let me remind the Tories that the COVID pass remains a tool in the armoury of the UK Government in their own winter plan, and it's quite possible that we will see the introduction of this measure in the United Kingdom. And Plaid has asked us to back what works. Well, this system has been working for four months. We know that lots of venues have been using it already across Wales. I know, because I attended a Nile Rodgers concert, and it worked extremely well under those circumstances. Nobody is being forced to be vaccinated. Let's be absolutely clear about that. There is an option for people to have a lateral flow test to show that they don't have the virus.

And you tell us to listen to what the scientists are telling us. Well, I'll tell you what the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies is telling us. They're telling us, 'Act early; act now.' And every day, every day we hesitate, those rates go up. And every day we hesitate, those rates will put more pressure on our NHS services. And let's be clear: not accepting this suggests that you're happy to do nothing in the next few weeks. Nobody is suggesting that any facility should keep data. We fully understand that businesses want to remain open, and this measure will help us to do that throughout the winter. And let me be clear: not supporting this measure today will be an act of gross irresponsibility when it comes to public health in Wales. And this measure will allow the facilities to stay open in the face of one of the most challenging winters that we are yet to face. The public is on our side on this, and they are watching you in this Chamber today, and I urge you to support this measure.