National Assembly for Wales

Coal tips are not generally associated with causing significant heavy metal pollution to rivers.

Heavy metal contamination is more typically associated with abandoned metal mines. We are committed to ensuring environmental justice for communities impacted by our industrial past.

We are proud of Wales’s long history of welcoming people fleeing violence or persecution with respect, safety and compassion. While Wales does not have the power to decide who seeks asylum here, we can treat those who arrive with decency, provide support, and ensure they can rebuild their lives safely. This is the core principle of the internationally shared Nation of Sanctuary vision, which promotes integration and community cohesion.

The Welsh Government is working to improve the availability and accessibility of Wales‑specific statistics. This includes working with partners across the UK statistical system to address gaps, and ensure people have timely, high‑quality evidence to support decision‑making and transparency here in Wales.

Improvements to people’s lives will always be our priority when considering constitutional reform and additional powers for Wales. In addition to natural resources, we are exploring areas such as justice and policing, the Crown Estate and rail infrastructure, in line with the recommendations of The Independent Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales.

Wales should have the powers needed to manage, govern and benefit from its natural resources, including the Crown Estate. Welsh land, water, air, seas, biodiversity and energy underpin our economy, health, wellbeing, and our environment. Wales should be making decisions in terms of its natural resources, with revenues delivering for our communities.