11. What support is the Welsh Government providing to develop social enterprise and the social economy in South Wales Central? OQ58007

Supporting and developing social enterprise and the social economy across Wales to develop and grow is key to contributing towards creating a stronger, fairer and greener Wales. The Welsh Government provides dedicated support for the sector and provides match funding towards a social business Wales service.

Thank you, Minister. Over the past year, it's been an honour to meet with many social enterprises across the region and to see the excellent work that they do in regenerating our communities and supporting people of all ages and developing the local economy. Can I ask you what discussions you have had with other Ministers to ensure that social enterprises and the social economy are things that are promoted across Government portfolios, such as through the new curriculum?

I have not just discussions on the education aspect but practical discussions, for example, with Julie James, the housing Minister, about the impact of housing associations as important economic actors within local areas, as well as the direct engagement I have with others. Given that Jane Hutt is next to me, I should, of course, mention her continued interest and advocacy of the third sector as economic actors as well. So, this is something where a range of Ministers have an interest, although I have lead responsibility, and we continue to invest in the sector and the bespoke business support that is available. I should, in answering this question, of course, draw the attention of those Members who are unaware of it to the revamp, change in name and mission, or the reinvigorated mission, of the Wales Co-operative Centre, which is now known as Cwmpas Cymru, and I look forward to working with them to continue to practically support the sector to grow and develop in the future as a mainstream part of what we expect the future of Wales to look like.

I thank the Minister and Deputy Minister.