10. Will the First Minister provide an update on the discussions between the Welsh Government and the UK Government on the appointment on a veterans commissioner for Wales? OQ57360

Llywydd, the appointment of a veterans commissioner for Wales is an initiative of the UK Government, announced without any prior discussion or notification with the Welsh Government. Nevertheless, this week the Deputy Minister for Social Partnership is meeting the Minister for Defence People and Veterans to discuss this proposed appointment. 

Diolch, First Minister. Brecon and Radnorshire is a proud military community, and I recently mentioned in the Chamber the important role the military plays, both socially and economically, in my constituency. I regularly speak with veterans who tell me there is a need for this focused role in our political system to deal with the issues and challenges that veterans face. The Deputy Minister and I have had very positive discussions on this issue. First Minister, could you commit that, if the issues that exist between the UK Government and the Welsh Government on this matter can be overcome, your Government will constructively work with the UK Government on appointing a veterans commissioner for Wales? Diolch, Llywydd. 

Llywydd, I was very pleased recently to spend an evening at the Brecon barracks and to meet with some very senior, committed staff there. Llywydd, there are no issues that lie between the Welsh Government and the UK Government on this matter; it is entirely a UK Government initiative, proposed by them, announced by them, funded by them. Of course we will work with the UK Government on it, but it is just very important to be clear where the initiative comes from and where the initiative lies. I hope that the appointment will be a success and that it will deliver good things for veterans in Wales. But the responsibility for ensuring that lies with the Government that has initiated it and seeks to take it forward. The meeting between the Minister in the Welsh Government and the Minister for Defence People and Veterans is designed to make sure that, where we have a part to play, we're made aware of that, and we'll certainly do that constructively.

Thank you, First Minister.