This Bill, for the first time in Welsh legislation, brings together responsibility for overseeing Wales's higher and further education, school sixth forms, apprenticeships and research and innovation in one place, and places the values and vision that we have for post-16 education on a firm statutory footing. Whilst one of the main effects of the Bill is the creation of Wales's first ever national steward for the whole tertiary research sector and the closure of the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales, the outcome that we are seeking, by shaping a new structure and system, is better supported learners with the knowledge and skills for lifelong learning, development and success. It's only by adopting a whole-system, whole-sector and whole-nation approach that we will narrow educational inequalities, expand opportunities and raise standards. The reforms delivered by this Bill will help break down barriers, secure easier learner pathways and support continued investment in research and innovation.

The new strategic duties that set out in law our values and ambitions for tertiary education in Wales will guide the new commission and the sector. These duties will help embed a renewed commitment to lifelong learning so that Wales becomes a nation of second chances where it's never too late to learn; a focus on wider participation and equality of opportunity; the expansion of Welsh-medium tertiary education provision; a sector global in outlook with a clear civic mission and that contributes to a sustainable and innovative economy, true continuous improvement; a competitive and collaborative research and innovation sector and one that reflects the principles of social partnership. Together with our statement of priorities, these strategic duties provide the long-term strategic planning framework this valued and varied sector needs to deliver as we recover, renew and reform.

Everyone has the right to a happy education experience, and I want Wales to have a reputation in the UK and internationally for putting learners and their well-being at the centre of our education system. Through this Bill, we are focusing on the success and well-being of learners of all ages across all settings and in all communities. Learners are at the heart of these reforms, and the commission will take a system-wide view, supporting learners throughout their lives to have the knowledge and skills to succeed.

Llywydd, I view this Bill as the parity of esteem Bill, supporting the different but complementary strengths of all institutions so that learners of all ages have access to the full range of opportunities and are able to contribute economically, academically and to our communities. Many in this Siambr and across the country have long imagined a future where we break down the barriers between sectors, institutions and students. By voting for this Bill today, we are no longer imagining that future, we are making it—