Thank you, Llywydd. I am pleased to introduce the Tertiary Education and Research (Wales) Bill for the Senedd’s consideration. I do so on behalf of this Government and on behalf of the many contributors who have helped shape its development during extensive consultation and engagement.

The Bill establishes a new commission for tertiary education and research and dissolves the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales. As the national steward for tertiary education and research, the commission will be responsible for its funding, oversight and its quality. The commission will take a system-wide view, supporting learners throughout their lives to have the knowledge and skills to succeed, and securing providers that are strong, independent and diverse and that make significant contributions to national well-being and prosperity.

For the first time in Welsh legislation, we will bring the following sectors together in one place: Wales's higher and further education, school sixth forms maintained by local authorities, apprenticeships, adult community learning, as well as responsibility for research and innovation. In the Bill, we set out nine strategic duties for the commission. Together, they provide the long-term strategic planning framework for what this valuable and varied sector needs to deliver, as we recover, renew and reform.