Answers to questions not reached in Plenary
25/01/2023Answers 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 legal advice has the Counsel General provided to the Welsh Government regarding its policy on the legal status of gender self-identification?
This Government is committed to supporting all LGBTQ+ communities, as set out in the programme for government, and to simplifying the process for obtaining a gender recognition certificate.
Is the Counsel General content that the Trade in Animals and Related Products (Amendment and Legislative Functions) and Animal Health (Miscellaneous Amendments) (Wales) (EU Exit) Regulations 2022 are enforceable?
The regulations enshrine functions from unretained EU directives that have been legally enforceable across Great Britain for many years. These standards are already implemented by import controls as part of a framework that protects our biosecurity. I am confident that the regulations ensure full legal and operational enforceability.
What assessment has the Counsel General made of the impact the UK Parliament's decision to block the Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill will have on devolution in Wales?
As the First Minister has said, this is a dangerous moment. It sets a worrying precedent and is another example of the UK Government’s approach to the devolution settlements of the United Kingdom. We will do everything that we can to protect our settlement and the laws passed by this Senedd.
Questions For - Minister for Social Justice
Will the Minister provide an update on the support provided by the Welsh Government to families experiencing hardship due to the rising cost of living?
This year, the Welsh Government has provided support worth £1.6 billion, through programmes that protect disadvantaged households and families experiencing hardship. This includes funding for the provision of free school meals, the school essentials grant, our fuel support scheme and our childcare offer.
What assessment has the Minister made of the use of bailiffs in debt collection on families living in poverty in Mid and West Wales?
When bailiffs collect debts, the amount owing increases and families face more stress. This is why early intervention from single advice fund services is important. During April to September 2022, SAF services helped people in mid and west Wales to write off debts totalling £697,000 and claim £3,463,636 additional income.
What discussions has the Minister held with relevant authorities across Wales to ensure the safety of women in public spaces?
Our violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence national strategy is being delivered through a collaborative blueprint approach alongside key partners including local authorities, police and the specialist sector. Street harassment and safety in public places is one of the blueprint work streams, providing a focus for an innovative joined-up approach to this issue in Wales.
What discussions has the Minister had with the Minister for Finance and Local Government on the impact of the draft budget on social justice?
The Minister for Finance and Local Government and I met during the draft budget planning process to discuss ways of addressing the cost-of-living crisis and other inequalities through the draft budget. This included meetings as part of the Cabinet sub-committee on the cost of living.