Thank you, Jack, for bringing this petition forward for debate. In principle, the Welsh Conservatives support this petition. We recognise that protecting this unique area with its exceptional landscape is of national importance. We believe that the Cambrian mountains having area of outstanding natural beauty status will undoubtedly bring benefits to the area, helping to improve recognition for local brands and products, and will help provide further focus on community projects, such as tree planting, tackling invasive non-native species and improving biodiversity, especially in our peatlands. It will help in the management of conservation work and the preservation of traditional skills, and it will help with the training of local horticultural and land management skills. Furthermore, it will open the door to investment through the sustainable development fund and sustainable management schemes, which will help businesses within the AONB flourish.

However, I think it is wise, at this moment, to point out that, whilst we are in favour of designating the Cambrian mountains with AONB status, we have to be mindful that not everyone will be aware of how the status will positively impact them, and as with any change, communities can become nervous when they do not fully understand the implications for them and their livelihoods. We need to be acutely aware that the farming community within this proposed area will still need to make a living and manage the land to provide for us. Communities will still need housing, and younger people will still need a growing economy to support them. With this in mind, I would urge all interested parties who are supporting this AONB status to do their very best in communicating the positive impacts of it, to work closely with farming and other communities so as to better understand their concerns, and then to be mindful of these concerns when determining the final boundaries. Thank you.