Answers to questions not reached in Plenary
31/01/2023Answers are published in the language in which they are provided, with a translation into English of responses provided in Welsh.
Questions For - First Minister
How does the First Minister ensure that the social model of disability is implemented by the Welsh Government?
The Welsh Government is committed to applying and embedding the social model of disability throughout everything it does. The work of the disability rights taskforce is based on a common understanding of the social model of disability, human rights and co-production.
What support is the Welsh Government providing for children with additional learning needs in Caerphilly?
We are in the second year of the three-year planned implementation of our additional learning needs and education tribunal Act. From 2023, annual support for that implementation will be £25.5 million to support system improvement.
Will the First Minister provide an update on the Government's work relating to a four-day week?
We recognise the benefits of a shorter working week alongside other forms of flexible working, and we work in social partnership to encourage progressive and fair working practices. Officials discussed these issues with social partners at the joint executive committee of the workforce partnership council on 27 January.
Questions For - Minister for Economy
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the impact on Wales of the UK Government's announcement regarding the latest round of levelling-up funding?
The majority of Welsh bids were rejected by the UK Government as Ministers in London override our devolution settlement and make funding decisions on local projects within our communities. Levelling-up in Wales means failing schemes and unmet promises on EU funds, which are costing jobs and growth.
What is the Welsh Government doing to address the impact of the end of EU structural funding in Mid and West Wales?
The Welsh Government is working with partners to mitigate as far as possible the consequences of a UK Government replacement scheme that is underfunded, unfit for purpose and is resulting in the closure of programmes that are vital to our economy, and directly costing Wales jobs.
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of employment levels in south-east Wales?
In south-east Wales, 718,000 people were in employment in the 12 months to September 2022, up 12.8 per cent on the same period in 2011. This is a better performance than Wales and UK over the same period.
Questions For - Minister for Health and Social Services
What discussions has the Minister had with the UK Government on mental health checks for firearms licensees?
Firearms licensing remains a reserved matter, and police are the licensing authority for firearms. Doctors support this process by confirming to the police any relevant medical conditions, including around mental health, which need to be taken into account in the issuing of a firearms licence.
What action is the Welsh Government taking to increase surgical capacity in the Welsh NHS?
Increasing capacity is a key commitment in our planned care recovery plan. This is supported by an annual recurrent commitment of £170 million, together with £15 million for transformation. In 2022-23, we have seen additional capacity in Cardiff and Vale, Swansea bay and Hywel Dda. All health boards are developing local and regional plans for 2023-24.