Answers to questions not reached in Plenary

24/03/2020

Answers are published in the language in which they are provided, with a translation into English of responses provided in Welsh.

Questions For - First Minister

OAQ55283 Tabled on 19/03/2020

Will the First Minister make a statement on staff recruitment in the social care sector?

The Welsh Government recognises the importance of attraction, recruitment and retention of vital workers into social care. The WeCare.Wales campaign, commissioned and launched in March last year, attracted many thousands of new people to learn of the rewards that a social care career can bring.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55285 Tabled on 19/03/2020

Will the First Minister make a statement on data protection in the NHS?

Sharing information safely is a cornerstone of modern healthcare in Wales. Data in the NHS is protected, whether on paper or in a digital format. A new NHS Wales information governance statement has been issued in response to the extraordinary circumstances we face. The statement has been endorsed by the Information Commissioner's Office.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55291 Tabled on 19/03/2020

What actions is the Welsh Government taking to support food banks during the coronavirus emergency?

This financial year we have provided £2 million through the European transition fund to support resilience for emergency food organisations and promote food security. The coronavirus crisis presents new problems for food banks and we are currently considering how we can best support them.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55294 Tabled on 19/03/2020

What discussions has the First Minister had with the UK Government regarding support for landlords and tenants in all sectors in light of the coronavirus outbreak?

The Welsh Government is working closely with the sector to secure the help needed. I welcome the undertakings from both local authorities and Community Housing Cymru that social tenants will not be evicted for financial hardship during the outbreak. I also welcome the advice of the Residential Landlords Association.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55296 Tabled on 19/03/2020

How is the Welsh Government working with local government in Wales to respond to the coronavirus outbreak?

We work closely with the political and officer leadership in Welsh local government to assist them in the enormous effort local authorities are making to assist individuals and communities in the current crisis.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55297 Tabled on 19/03/2020

What steps is the Welsh Government taking to support the economy in South Wales Central?

We are doing everything we can to protect businesses and jobs throughout Wales during this unprecedented time, including an extra £1.4 billion of financial support. 

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55298 Tabled on 19/03/2020

Will the First Minister provide an update on the provisions for homeless people during the coronavirus crisis?

We have made additional funding of up to £10 million available to local authorities to enable them to support those without a home so they can be protected, supported, and isolated if necessary during the crisis. This funding reflects the intensive support needed in the sector and the vulnerability of this group.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55299 Tabled on 19/03/2020

Will the First Minister provide an update on the effect of coronavirus on this year's school examinations in Wales?

Due to these exceptional circumstances, on 18 March, the Minister for Education announced that the summer exam series would not go ahead. Learners due to sit their GCSEs and A-levels this summer will be awarded a fair grade to recognise their work, drawing on all available information.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55300 Tabled on 19/03/2020

Will the First Minister make a statement on Welsh Government efforts to test and trace coronavirus cases, as has been called for by the World Health Organisation?

The Minister for Health and Social Services issued written statements on 18 and 20 March on testing.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55301 Tabled on 19/03/2020

Will the First Minister make a statement on the support available to businesses and employees during the coronavirus pandemic?

We recognise the incredibly difficult and uncertain circumstances that businesses are experiencing and are absolutely committed to providing the support and assurance the business community needs. Following the initial package of £200 million support announced on 17 March, we have now extended this and will be providing almost £1.4 billion of support for businesses.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020
 
OAQ55302 Tabled on 19/03/2020

What steps is the Welsh Government taking to address the risk of an increase in domestic violence during the period of isolation due to the coronavirus outbreak?

Our Live Fear Free helpline and website will continue to offer support 24/7 throughout the pandemic. We have been working closely with our national advisers and key partners to identify vulnerabilities, mitigations and contingencies to ensure victims and survivors are safe during these exceptional circumstances.

Answered by First Minister | Answered on - 27/03/2020