10. Debate: Stage 4 of the Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Bill

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:50 pm on 14 March 2023.

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Photo of Hannah Blythyn Hannah Blythyn Labour 5:50, 14 March 2023

The scrutiny process for this Bill has been rigorous and challenging, which is as it should be, but it has been conducted in a productive manner throughout. I appreciate that a Bill of this nature was unlikely to secure universal support across all parties, but you have sought to reach compromise where possible and to respectfully acknowledge differences where these cannot be overcome. We've worked closely with Plaid Cymru and engaged constructively with the Equality and Social Justice Committee. I believe that the amendments that have been made to the Bill as a result of the Senedd's scrutiny have improved it. I restate my commitment to non-government parties and, of course, Members of my own back benches who have taken an active interest in this Bill, that I will continue to engage with you in a meaningful way in the coming months as we develop the supporting guidance that will be so important in bringing this legislation to life. 

A special word of thanks must go to the committee clerks, Senedd lawyers and other Commission staff for their professional and supportive approach throughout. The way in which this Bill has progressed through the scrutiny process and to the timetable agreed at the outset is a testimony to your hard work and dedication. I extend the same thanks to Welsh Government officials who have very much pulled out all the stops to get us to this point. In fact, I think they're sick of the sight of me. But, in all seriousness, I and my Cabinet colleagues recognise and appreciate your efforts.

Finally, a sincere thank you to all of our external stakeholders and partners, from those who have been on this journey from the outset and responded to our original consultation on the draft Bill, to all who contributed evidence and all who have leant us their expertise throughout the scrutiny process. I think it's fair to say that the spirit in which this legislation has been developed is in itself a model of social partnership working. We will continue to count on that support and experience in the coming months as we move on to the work needed to successfully put this legislation into practice. And there is much still to be done. There is subordinate legislation to be made, guidance and procedures to be developed, and training and support to be rolled out. I will, of course, keep Members and stakeholders updated on our implementation plan.

In closing, Dirprwy Lywydd, I thank Members and social partners once again for their co-operation, input and challenge. This is landmark legislation that puts our Welsh way of working on a more formal footing and one that'll make a real difference to the people of Wales. I urge all Members to support the Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Bill. Diolch.