Answers to questions not reached in Plenary
13/09/2023Answers are published in the language in which they are provided, with a translation into English of responses provided in Welsh.
Questions For - Counsel General and Minister for the Constitution
What discussions has the Counsel General had with the UK Government regarding the use of police cells to house convicted prisoners?
Policing, Crime and Justice, and Prisons specifically, are currently reserved. The lack of prison capacity is the result of sentencing policies of the UK Government. We do not of course support increased prison capacity in Wales and look forward to the time when such matters are devolved to Wales.
What action is the Counsel General taking to ensure that legislation on increasing the number of Senedd Members and implementing gender quotas is implemented in time for the 2026 Senedd election?
We are taking a pragmatic approach to secure reform of the Senedd and gender quotas for 2026. The main reforms will be in the Senedd Cymru (Members and Elections) Bill to be introduced next week. Gender quotas will be addressed in a separate Bill to be introduced later this year.
Will the Counsel General provide an update on discussions with law officers regarding the plight of women born in the 1950s refused their state pension by the UK Government?
The Welsh Government has repeatedly expressed concerns to the UK Government about women who had their State Pension Age raised without effective or sufficient notification and will continue to do so. The Ombudsman's revised investigation report is needed as soon as possible to recommend remedies for the injustices found.
Questions For - Minister for Social Justice and Chief Whip
Will the Minister provide an update on the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service's current public consultation on emergency fire and rescue service cover in North Wales?
The consultation is an operational matter for North Wales Fire and Rescue Authority. These are difficult choices and I understand that they may cause concern in the communities that might be affected. The consultation is due to close shortly, after which the Authority will make a decision on the way forward and I would expect them to continue to work closely with both representatives of the workforce and local communities.
What is the Welsh Government's current assessment of the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on communities in Wales?
Research and analysis shows that communities across Wales are experiencing the biggest fall in living standards since records began as a result of the cost of living crisis. It also shows a disproportionate impact on communities that are already disadvantaged. This evidence continues to inform our government response.
What assessment has the Minister made of the impact that blanket 20mph speed limits will have on promoting prosperity and tackling poverty in Monmouth?
The new 20mph speed limit is not a blanket limit. As well as increasing social cohesion, improving physical and mental health, and reducing NHS and emergency services workloads, it is expected to strengthen local economies through increased footfall.