Answers to questions not reached in Plenary
11/01/2023Answers are published in the language in which they are provided, with a translation into English of responses provided in Welsh.
Questions For - Minister for Climate Change
What is the Welsh Government's strategy for reducing Wales's carbon emissions from food?
Food policy is the responsibility of the Minster for Rural Affairs and North Wales, and Trefnydd. We support a range of programmes, including work towards a 50 per cent absolute reduction in greenhouse gas emissions associated with food and drink by 2030 and preventing emissions by saving waste food from household bins.
Will the Minister provide a commitment that the Welsh Government will veto any new coal mines in Wales?
We will continue to use all the tools available to us to prevent new coal extraction in Wales and bring the extraction and use of coal to a managed end. Our coal policy published in 2021 provides the basis for any decisions that are within our powers to make.
What steps is the Welsh Government taking to tackle air pollution in Newport East?
We continue to work closely with Newport City Council to deliver improvements at several air quality management areas. This includes funding for specific air quality projects through our local air quality management grant. We are also enforcing the 50 mph limit on the M4 through Newport to address levels of nitrogen dioxide.
Questions For - Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
How is the Welsh Government supporting additional learning needs pupils?
We are committed to creating an inclusive education system. Our additional learning needs reforms put learners at the heart of the process to identify and meet their needs and will help ensure all pupils requiring additional support to meet an ALN have that support properly planned for and protected.
Will the Minister make a statement on the role of faith schools in North Wales?
Faith schools across Wales offer parents the opportunity for their children to be educated in accordance with their beliefs. Local authorities should therefore aim for a balance of provision between the types of schools that they maintain, whilst ensuring high-quality teaching and learning and curriculum coverage for all learners.
Will the Minister provide an update on school absence rates?
Attendance rates are currently 89.7 per cent on average. My priority is to ensure all children and young people have the opportunity to reach their potential, regardless of their background. Maintaining good attendance and engagement with children and their families is key to this.
Will the Minister make a statement on the provision of education in Montgomeryshire?
The duty to ensure that suitable educational provision is made available for children and young people rests with local authorities. This includes a duty to promote high standards of education, fair access to education and a general duty to ensure there are sufficient schools in their area.