Siambr · Andrew RT Davies
Written questions
214 written questions on record from the Seventh Senedd on, newest first. Page 1 of 5.
WQ101074 · Tabled · No answer published
Who attended the Welsh Government's wildfire summit on 22 October 2026?
To be answered by: First Minister
WQ101073 · Tabled · No answer published
Who was invited to attend the Welsh Government's wildfire summit on 22 October 2026?
To be answered by: First Minister
WQ101023 · Tabled · Answered
Why did the Welsh Government choose the Band 2 remuneration rate for allowances paid to co-opted members of governance and audit committees of local authorities?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
Responsibility for determining remuneration for members of relevant local government bodies in Wales rests independently with the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru (the Commission) not the Welsh Government. The Commission is responsible for setting the remuneration framework for elected, appointed and co-opted members of local government bodies and for determining the appropriate remuneration levels and associated payments
On this basis the Welsh Government has not undertaken a separate review of the remuneration paid to lay members of local authority governance and audit committees, the Band 2 classification or the daily fee attached to these roles.
The methodology, evidence and rationale underpinning the Commissions’ determinations are set out in the relevant annual reports, which published by the independent body.
WQ101022 · Tabled · Answered
Will the First Minister provide details of all roles and public bodies that fall within Band 2 of the public appointment remuneration framework?
Answered by First Minister
The review considered the daily rates payable to board members. Benchmarking against arrangements elsewhere in the UK informed the decision to increase daily rates by 3.25% from 1 January 2026, following a number of years where rates had remained unchanged.
The daily rates for Band 2 are Chair £265; Deputy Chair £234; Board Member £205.
The following bodies have regulated Band 2 appointments:
WQ101021 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Welsh Government publish the methodology and evidence used to determine the Band 2 classification and £205 daily rate payable to lay members of governance and audit committees of local authorities?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
Responsibility for determining remuneration for members of relevant local government bodies in Wales rests independently with the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru (the Commission) not the Welsh Government. The Commission is responsible for setting the remuneration framework for elected, appointed and co-opted members of local government bodies and for determining the appropriate remuneration levels and associated payments
On this basis the Welsh Government has not undertaken a separate review of the remuneration paid to lay members of local authority governance and audit committees, the Band 2 classification or the daily fee attached to these roles.
The methodology, evidence and rationale underpinning the Commissions’ determinations are set out in the relevant annual reports, which published by the independent body.
WQ101020 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Welsh Government publish its most recent review of remuneration for public appointments?
Answered by First Minister
The review considered the daily rates payable to board members. Benchmarking against arrangements elsewhere in the UK informed the decision to increase daily rates by 3.25% from 1 January 2026, following a number of years where rates had remained unchanged. The daily rates for Band 2 are Chair £265; Deputy Chair £234; Board Member £205.
The following bodies have regulated Band 2 appointments:
WQ101019 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister publish the most recent review of remuneration paid to lay members of governance and audit committees of local authorities?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
Responsibility for determining remuneration for members of relevant local government bodies in Wales rests independently with the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru (the Commission) not the Welsh Government. The Commission is responsible for setting the remuneration framework for elected, appointed and co-opted members of local government bodies and for determining the appropriate remuneration levels and associated payments
On this basis the Welsh Government has not undertaken a separate review of the remuneration paid to lay members of local authority governance and audit committees, the Band 2 classification or the daily fee attached to these roles.
The methodology, evidence and rationale underpinning the Commissions’ determinations are set out in the relevant annual reports, which published by the independent body.
WQ101018 · Tabled · Answered
When did the Welsh Government last review the remuneration paid to lay members of governance and audit committees of local authorities?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
Responsibility for determining remuneration for members of relevant local government bodies in Wales rests independently with the Democracy and Boundary Commission Cymru (the Commission) not the Welsh Government. The Commission is responsible for setting the remuneration framework for elected, appointed and co-opted members of local government bodies and for determining the appropriate remuneration levels and associated payments
On this basis the Welsh Government has not undertaken a separate review of the remuneration paid to lay members of local authority governance and audit committees, the Band 2 classification or the daily fee attached to these roles.
The methodology, evidence and rationale underpinning the Commissions’ determinations are set out in the relevant annual reports, which published by the independent body.
WQ100969 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Welsh Government given to making a) the perpetrator, or b) local authorities, responsible for removing fly-tipped waste from private property?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Welsh Government recognises the impact of fly-tipping on private land and is clear that those responsible should bear the costs for this criminal activity. Section 33B of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 enables courts to make orders requiring the offender to pay the costs of removing the waste, disposing of the waste or mitigating the effects of the offence.
WQ100986 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions has the Cabinet Minister had with Welsh Government colleagues about wildfire preparedness?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
I and my Ministerial colleagues and officials have had very extensive discussions with each other, and with the Fire and Rescue Service and other partner organisations, about wildfires in recent months. We will continue those at the Prif Weinidog’s summit on 22 October.
WQ100985 · Tabled · Answered
How many drones are owned by Welsh fire and rescue services, broken down by service area?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
These are operational matters for the Fire and Rescue Services, and such information is not held centrally.
WQ100984 · Tabled · Answered
How many terrain-support vehicles are owned by Welsh fire and rescue services, broken down by service area?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
These are operational matters for the Fire and Rescue Services, and such information is not held centrally.
WQ100983 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions has the Cabinet Minister or Welsh Government officials had with Welsh fire and rescue services about preventing wildfires?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
I and my Ministerial colleagues and officials have had very extensive discussions with each other, and with the Fire and Rescue Service and other partner organisations, about wildfires in recent months. We will continue those at the Prif Weinidog’s summit on 22 October.
WQ100976 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions has the Cabinet Minister or Welsh Government officials had with industry representatives about the impact of rising production costs on the viability of Welsh farming businesses, including details of the industry representatives?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
My officials and I have discussed rising production costs and the pressures facing Welsh farming businesses with representatives of NFU Cymru and the Farmers Union of Wales (FUW).
Officials also engage with the industry through the monthly Livestock Chain Advisory Group, where production costs have been discussed. Industry representatives include FUW, NFU Cymru, the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers, the Livestock Auctioneers Association, The British Egg Industry Council, the International Meat Trade Association, the Provision Trade Association, Dairy UK and the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers.
Alongside this industry engagement, officials have attended monthly Agricultural Market Monitoring Group meetings with counterparts from DEFRA, DAERA and the Scottish Government to monitor input costs including red diesel, feed and fertiliser.
WQ100971 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions has the Cabinet Minister or Welsh Government officials had with industry representatives about the rise in production costs in Welsh agriculture, including details of the industry representatives?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
My officials and I have discussed rising production costs and the pressures facing Welsh farming businesses with representatives of NFU Cymru and the Farmers Union of Wales (FUW).
Officials also engage with the industry through the monthly Livestock Chain Advisory Group, where production costs have been discussed. Industry representatives include FUW, NFU Cymru, the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers, the Livestock Auctioneers Association, The British Egg Industry Council, the International Meat Trade Association, the Provision Trade Association, Dairy UK and the Central Association of Agricultural Valuers.
Alongside this industry engagement, officials have attended monthly Agricultural Market Monitoring Group meetings with counterparts from DEFRA, DAERA and the Scottish Government to monitor input costs including red diesel, feed and fertiliser.
WQ100968 · Tabled · No answer published
What Welsh Government support is available to the victims of fly-tipping?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ100964 · Tabled · No answer published
What action is the Welsh Government taking against fly tippers?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ100963 · Tabled · No answer published
What action is the Welsh Government taking to deter fly-tipping from occurring?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ100857 · Tabled · Answered
How much did the Welsh Government initially budget for its Discretionary Assistance Fund and how did this compare to the final costs incurred?
Answered by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
It is not possible to answer this question as it is not clear what time period your query relates to, however information relating to Welsh Government budgets is published at [ARCHIVED CONTENT] Welsh Government budgets | GOV.WALES.
WQ100856 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm if lost or stolen money is explicitly excluded as a qualifying criteria for payment under the Discretionary Assistance Fund?
Answered by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
Lost and stolen money is not an eligible reason for a claim for an Emergency Assistance Payment from the Discretionary Assistance Fund.
WQ100848 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Cabinet Minister given to National Sheep Association's recent survey, in which 40 per cent of respondents stated that they were unable to obtain bluetongue vaccines for their flocks despite trying?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
I note the National Sheep Association's survey indicates a strong demand for Bluetongue vaccination next year. Vaccine use is a commercial decision for farmers and the survey results highlight the need for early conversations between farmers, vets and vaccine manufacturers to ensure sufficient stocks are available to meet demand throughout 2027.
WQ100785 · Tabled · Answered
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the impact of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board withdrawing the on-call service for paediatric neurology patients?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government aims to ensure that people of all ages who live with, or are affected by, a neurological condition have timely and equitable access to high-quality services that support them to live well. These aims are set out in the Quality Statement for neurological conditions.
I expect health boards to plan and deliver safe, sustainable services that respond to the needs of their populations and comply with professional standards, clinical guidance and national commissioning arrangements.
When proposing service changes, health boards must undertake a rigorous options appraisal and impact assessment. They must also engage appropriately with local communities, patients, staff and partners, including Llais and other health boards, in accordance with national guidance: How to make changes to health services: guidance for NHS organisations | GOV.WALES.
Paediatric neurology services at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board are commissioned through the NHS Wales Joint Commissioning Committee (JCC). The JCC is actively engaging with the health board about the on-call service. My officials maintain a constructive relationship with the JCC and continue to monitor the matter through these arrangements.
WQ100784 · Tabled · Answered
What action is the Welsh Government taking to ensure that Cardiff and Vale University Health Board reinstates its on-call service for paediatric neurology patients as a matter of urgency?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government aims to ensure that people of all ages who live with, or are affected by, a neurological condition have timely and equitable access to high-quality services that support them to live well. These aims are set out in the Quality Statement for neurological conditions.
I expect health boards to plan and deliver safe, sustainable services that respond to the needs of their populations and comply with professional standards, clinical guidance and national commissioning arrangements.
When proposing service changes, health boards must undertake a rigorous options appraisal and impact assessment. They must also engage appropriately with local communities, patients, staff and partners, including Llais and other health boards, in accordance with national guidance: How to make changes to health services: guidance for NHS organisations | GOV.WALES.
Paediatric neurology services at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board are commissioned through the NHS Wales Joint Commissioning Committee (JCC). The JCC is actively engaging with the health board about the on-call service. My officials maintain a constructive relationship with the JCC and continue to monitor the matter through these arrangements.
WQ100783 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm whether he or any Welsh Government officials knew about Cardiff and Vale University Health Board's plans to withdraw the on-call service for paediatric neurology patients prior to the announcement?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government aims to ensure that people of all ages who live with, or are affected by, a neurological condition have timely and equitable access to high-quality services that support them to live well. These aims are set out in the Quality Statement for neurological conditions.
I expect health boards to plan and deliver safe, sustainable services that respond to the needs of their populations and comply with professional standards, clinical guidance and national commissioning arrangements.
When proposing service changes, health boards must undertake a rigorous options appraisal and impact assessment. They must also engage appropriately with local communities, patients, staff and partners, including Llais and other health boards, in accordance with national guidance: How to make changes to health services: guidance for NHS organisations | GOV.WALES.
Paediatric neurology services at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board are commissioned through the NHS Wales Joint Commissioning Committee (JCC). The JCC is actively engaging with the health board about the on-call service. My officials maintain a constructive relationship with the JCC and continue to monitor the matter through these arrangements.
WQ100782 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions has the Cabinet Minister or Welsh Government officials had with representatives of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board about the withdrawal of the on-call service for paediatric neurology patients in south Wales?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government aims to ensure that people of all ages who live with, or are affected by, a neurological condition have timely and equitable access to high-quality services that support them to live well. These aims are set out in the Quality Statement for neurological conditions.
I expect health boards to plan and deliver safe, sustainable services that respond to the needs of their populations and comply with professional standards, clinical guidance and national commissioning arrangements.
When proposing service changes, health boards must undertake a rigorous options appraisal and impact assessment. They must also engage appropriately with local communities, patients, staff and partners, including Llais and other health boards, in accordance with national guidance: How to make changes to health services: guidance for NHS organisations | GOV.WALES.
Paediatric neurology services at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board are commissioned through the NHS Wales Joint Commissioning Committee (JCC). The JCC is actively engaging with the health board about the on-call service. My officials maintain a constructive relationship with the JCC and continue to monitor the matter through these arrangements.
WQ100780 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Welsh Government have to introduce regulations on breeding dogs with exaggerated characteristics that are associated with health or welfare problems?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
There is already legislation in place regulating the breeding of dogs in Wales. The Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2014 introduced a licensing regime for dog breeders and established enhanced welfare standards for licensed breeding establishments, improving the welfare of breeding dogs and puppies across Wales.
Breeding animals for exaggerated physical characteristics can negatively affect their health and quality of life. The Welsh Government promotes responsible dog breeding, including appropriate health screening, seeking veterinary advice where necessary, and avoiding the breeding of traits associated with poor welfare outcomes. We have published guidance which includes links to additional sources of information and advice: Responsible dog breeding and ownership | GOV.WALES
We are committed to delivering a new Animal Welfare Plan for Wales, as set out in our Programme for Government. We will work closely with stakeholders, operational partners and the third sector to develop our new approach. Building on Wales's strong reputation for animal welfare, we want to maintain and enhance the high standards already in place. We will focus on policies that deliver the greatest welfare benefits, targeting action where it can have the most significant and lasting impact. This includes proportionate and enforceable standards, which are essential to safeguarding animal welfare and addressing poor practice where it occurs.
WQ100779 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Welsh Government have to introduce regulations on breeding cats with exaggerated characteristics that are associated with health or welfare problems?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
Breeding animals for exaggerated physical characteristics can negatively affect their health and quality of life. Our Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats supports responsible breeding. It advises owners to seek veterinary advice before breeding, health-screen breeding animals, ensure suitable homes for kittens and to avoid breeding traits associated with poor welfare. We have also published guidance on responsible cat ownership, which includes links to additional sources of information and advice: Responsible cat ownership | GOV.WALES
We are committed to delivering a new Animal Welfare Plan for Wales, as set out in our Programme for Government. We will work closely with stakeholders, operational partners and the third sector to develop our new approach. Building on Wales's strong reputation for animal welfare, we want to maintain and enhance the high standards already in place. We will focus on policies that deliver the greatest welfare benefits, targeting action where it can have the most significant and lasting impact. This includes proportionate and enforceable standards, which are essential to safeguarding animal welfare and addressing poor practice where it occurs.
WQ100778 · Tabled · Answered
What action is the Welsh Government taking to prevent the breeding of dogs with extreme characteristics?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
There is already legislation in place regulating the breeding of dogs in Wales. The Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2014 introduced a licensing regime for dog breeders and established enhanced welfare standards for licensed breeding establishments, improving the welfare of breeding dogs and puppies across Wales.
Breeding animals for exaggerated physical characteristics can negatively affect their health and quality of life. The Welsh Government promotes responsible dog breeding, including appropriate health screening, seeking veterinary advice where necessary, and avoiding the breeding of traits associated with poor welfare outcomes. We have published guidance which includes links to additional sources of information and advice: Responsible dog breeding and ownership | GOV.WALES
We are committed to delivering a new Animal Welfare Plan for Wales, as set out in our Programme for Government. We will work closely with stakeholders, operational partners and the third sector to develop our new approach. Building on Wales's strong reputation for animal welfare, we want to maintain and enhance the high standards already in place. We will focus on policies that deliver the greatest welfare benefits, targeting action where it can have the most significant and lasting impact. This includes proportionate and enforceable standards, which are essential to safeguarding animal welfare and addressing poor practice where it occurs.
WQ100776 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Welsh Government have to introduce dog-breeding regulations?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
There is already legislation in place regulating the breeding of dogs in Wales. The Animal Welfare (Breeding of Dogs) (Wales) Regulations 2014 introduced a licensing regime for dog breeders and established enhanced welfare standards for licensed breeding establishments, improving the welfare of breeding dogs and puppies across Wales.
Breeding animals for exaggerated physical characteristics can negatively affect their health and quality of life. The Welsh Government promotes responsible dog breeding, including appropriate health screening, seeking veterinary advice where necessary, and avoiding the breeding of traits associated with poor welfare outcomes. We have published guidance which includes links to additional sources of information and advice: Responsible dog breeding and ownership | GOV.WALES
We are committed to delivering a new Animal Welfare Plan for Wales, as set out in our Programme for Government. We will work closely with stakeholders, operational partners and the third sector to develop our new approach. Building on Wales's strong reputation for animal welfare, we want to maintain and enhance the high standards already in place. We will focus on policies that deliver the greatest welfare benefits, targeting action where it can have the most significant and lasting impact. This includes proportionate and enforceable standards, which are essential to safeguarding animal welfare and addressing poor practice where it occurs.
WQ100774 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm whether the Welsh Government has any plans to follow England's lead by making microchipping compulsory for cats over 20 weeks old?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
By law, all dogs in Wales must be microchipped and registered on a compliant database by eight weeks of age. While microchipping cats is not mandatory in Wales, it remains good practice and an important part of responsible pet ownership. We encourage all cat owners in Wales to have their cats microchipped, and for dog and cat owners to keep their details up to date. Microchipping improves traceability when animals are lost, stolen, or involved in road traffic incidents, and provides the best chance of being reunited with their owner.
Findings from Cats Protection’s CATS Report, Cats and Their Stats Wales 2026, indicate that microchipping rates in Wales remain strong and stable at 73%, with 93% of these records kept up to date. Evidence from across the UK, including England where compulsory cat microchipping was introduced in 2024, suggests that the legislative change has not led to an increase in microchipping rates. In fact, uptake fell slightly from 74% to 73% in 2026. The data suggests that Wales is performing well without introducing a legal requirement for cat microchipping and there is already good recognition of microchipping’s role in responsible ownership.
As set out in our Programme for Government, we are committed to delivering a new Animal Welfare Plan for Wales. We will work closely with stakeholders, operational partners and the third sector to develop our new approach. Building on Wales's strong reputation for animal welfare, we want to maintain and enhance the high standards already in place. We will focus on policies that deliver the greatest welfare benefits, targeting action where it can have the most significant and lasting impact. This includes proportionate and enforceable standards, which are essential to safeguarding animal welfare and addressing poor practice where it occurs.
WQ100772 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister outline what steps the Welsh Government is taking to improve dog microchipping rates?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
By law, all dogs in Wales must be microchipped and registered on a compliant database by eight weeks of age. While microchipping cats is not mandatory in Wales, it remains good practice and an important part of responsible pet ownership. We encourage all cat owners in Wales to have their cats microchipped, and for dog and cat owners to keep their details up to date. Microchipping improves traceability when animals are lost, stolen, or involved in road traffic incidents, and provides the best chance of being reunited with their owner.
Findings from Cats Protection’s CATS Report, Cats and Their Stats Wales 2026, indicate that microchipping rates in Wales remain strong and stable at 73%, with 93% of these records kept up to date. Evidence from across the UK, including England where compulsory cat microchipping was introduced in 2024, suggests that the legislative change has not led to an increase in microchipping rates. In fact, uptake fell slightly from 74% to 73% in 2026. The data suggests that Wales is performing well without introducing a legal requirement for cat microchipping and there is already good recognition of microchipping’s role in responsible ownership.
As set out in our Programme for Government, we are committed to delivering a new Animal Welfare Plan for Wales. We will work closely with stakeholders, operational partners and the third sector to develop our new approach. Building on Wales's strong reputation for animal welfare, we want to maintain and enhance the high standards already in place. We will focus on policies that deliver the greatest welfare benefits, targeting action where it can have the most significant and lasting impact. This includes proportionate and enforceable standards, which are essential to safeguarding animal welfare and addressing poor practice where it occurs.
WQ100771 · Tabled · Answered
What steps is the Welsh Government taking to improve cat microchipping rates?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
By law, all dogs in Wales must be microchipped and registered on a compliant database by eight weeks of age. While microchipping cats is not mandatory in Wales, it remains good practice and an important part of responsible pet ownership. We encourage all cat owners in Wales to have their cats microchipped, and for dog and cat owners to keep their details up to date. Microchipping improves traceability when animals are lost, stolen, or involved in road traffic incidents, and provides the best chance of being reunited with their owner.
Findings from Cats Protection’s CATS Report, Cats and Their Stats Wales 2026, indicate that microchipping rates in Wales remain strong and stable at 73%, with 93% of these records kept up to date. Evidence from across the UK, including England where compulsory cat microchipping was introduced in 2024, suggests that the legislative change has not led to an increase in microchipping rates. In fact, uptake fell slightly from 74% to 73% in 2026. The data suggests that Wales is performing well without introducing a legal requirement for cat microchipping and there is already good recognition of microchipping’s role in responsible ownership.
As set out in our Programme for Government, we are committed to delivering a new Animal Welfare Plan for Wales. We will work closely with stakeholders, operational partners and the third sector to develop our new approach. Building on Wales's strong reputation for animal welfare, we want to maintain and enhance the high standards already in place. We will focus on policies that deliver the greatest welfare benefits, targeting action where it can have the most significant and lasting impact. This includes proportionate and enforceable standards, which are essential to safeguarding animal welfare and addressing poor practice where it occurs.
WQ100720 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister provide details of any Welsh Government-owned land in St Athan known to be contaminated with perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
The Welsh Government has completed a number of geo-environmental investigations across the Bro Tathan site to support various planning applications and work activities. More recently a series of voluntary investigations and contaminated land assessments have been commissioned to further identify and quantitatively assess potential risks from contaminates in the soil and groundwater. To date some potential sources and confirmed hotspots of per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) have been identified. Quantitative analysis to date has indicated there is low risk to human health from these sources. Monitoring from an environmental perspective is being established around the border of the site and in key locations across the site to record and analyse if there are any impacts on environmental receptors off site. NRW and the Council Public Health and Contaminated Land Officers are being actively consulted.
Welsh Ministers hold no information regarding PFA contamination in respect of other land which it owns in the St Athan area.
WQ100719 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister provide an update on the timescale for a decision regarding a screening direction for the proposed Vantage Data Centre in St Athan?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
A third party asked the Welsh Ministers to issue a screening direction in respect of the application for a non-material amendment 2023/00780/1/NMA which was being determined by Vale of Glamorgan Council. While that application has been withdrawn, consideration is being given to whether the development set out in planning application 2023/00780/FUL is EIA development within the definition set out in the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017. I anticipate that a decision will be made within the next few weeks.
WQ100693 · Tabled · Answered
Do Cabinet Ministers intend to make a screening direction under regulation 5 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Wales) Regulations 2017 in respect of application 2023/00780/1/NMA (Vantage Data Centre, Bro Tathan)?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
A third party has asked the Welsh Ministers to issue a screening direction in respect of the application. The matter is currently under active consideration.
WQ100560 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister outline any targets the Welsh Government has for domestic food production?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Welsh Government’s National Food Strategy for Wales will set out our vision for a sustainable, resilient and prosperous food system. Recommended targets for domestic food production will be considered as part of the wider strategic process and to address specific objectives
WQ100562 · Tabled · Answered
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the reasons for the rapid increase of bluetongue cases in Welsh livestock?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The increase in Bluetongue cases reflects the continued circulation of the virus in Great Britain, including overwintering of the disease and onward spread by infected biting midges during the active vector season. Higher temperatures have increased transmission by accelerating the virus incubation period in midges and relatively low levels of vaccine protection in Welsh livestock have also contributed to the rise in cases.
Vaccination remains the most effective tool available to reduce the impact of Bluetongue on livestock and farming businesses. Keepers are strongly encouraged to discuss vaccination with their veterinary surgeon now, to ensure better protection for the remainder of 2026 and for 2027.
WQ100558 · Tabled · Answered
What action is the Welsh Government taking to reduce Wales's reliance on imported food?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
Wales is part of an aggregated UK and international food system and sources key ingredients from a range of suppliers. Many sourcing decisions are made through UK-wide supply chains. The Welsh Government is supporting sustainable food and working with retailers, manufacturers and other partners to strengthen our regional food chain and supply base. This will create opportunities for Welsh food and drink businesses, as we develop a National Food Strategy for Wales.
WQ100557 · Tabled · Answered
What action is the Welsh Government taking to increase food security?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Welsh Government is strengthening food security through support for sustainable food production, delivery of the Sustainable Farming Scheme and development of a National Food Strategy for Wales. We are also working with industry and partners across the food chain to strengthen the resilience of Wales's food system.
WQ100547 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm whether Rural Payments Wales will make advance payments of the Basic Payment Scheme in October, like they did last year?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
Rural Payments Wales will be making Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) advance payments from 14 October 2026, subject to the necessary eligibility checks being completed.
As in previous years, advance payments will be made automatically to eligible claimants, with balance payments following once full validation checks have been completed.
WQ100500 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm the total amount the Welsh Government has spent to date on removing trespassers from the illegal travellers' encampment at Brocastle?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
No expenditure has been incurred to date on legal proceedings to remove the unauthorised encampment at Brocastle Business Park as no such proceedings have been commenced. Any future costs will depend on the action ultimately required to secure the site, clear waste and debris, and prevent further unauthorised occupation.
WQ100499 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm the date on which the Welsh Government first commenced legal proceedings to remove trespassers from the illegal travellers' encampment at Brocastle?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
No formal legal proceedings have yet been commenced by the Welsh Government to remove the unauthorised encampment at Brocastle Business Park. Officials have been managing the matter in accordance with Welsh Government’s Managing Unauthorised Encampments guidance and are currently considering the most appropriate legal and operational options to address the situation.
WQ100191 · Tabled · Answered
What engagement has the Welsh Government had with the manufacturers of bluetongue vaccines to ensure that supply meets demand and Welsh farmers are able to access the vaccines?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Pirbright Institute is the National Reference Laboratory for Bluetongue diagnosis. As its capacity is being stretched by the current outbreak, additional surge testing will be undertaken at the APHA laboratory in Weybridge.
The Welsh Government is part of the Bluetongue Vaccine Taskforce, that works to improve the supply of vaccine available for use in Great Britain. The Task Force comprises all three GB administrations, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, farming industry representatives and members of the veterinary associations.
Vaccine manufacturers and wholesalers regularly attend the Task Force meetings and are currently importing products from Northern Ireland and Europe to help meet demand in GB. They advise that commercial decisions around further imports and vaccine production runs are dependent on demand from industry. All members of the Task Force are urging farmers and vets to place orders for vaccine to demonstrate demand and ensure additional supplies are made available.
WQ100190 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm what role the Welsh Government has played in securing enough bluetongue vaccines for the Welsh herd and flock?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Pirbright Institute is the National Reference Laboratory for Bluetongue diagnosis. As its capacity is being stretched by the current outbreak, additional surge testing will be undertaken at the APHA laboratory in Weybridge.
The Welsh Government is part of the Bluetongue Vaccine Taskforce, that works to improve the supply of vaccine available for use in Great Britain. The Task Force comprises all three GB administrations, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, farming industry representatives and members of the veterinary associations.
Vaccine manufacturers and wholesalers regularly attend the Task Force meetings and are currently importing products from Northern Ireland and Europe to help meet demand in GB. They advise that commercial decisions around further imports and vaccine production runs are dependent on demand from industry. All members of the Task Force are urging farmers and vets to place orders for vaccine to demonstrate demand and ensure additional supplies are made available.
WQ100189 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm what capacity exists within the Government's laboratories in regards to testing for bluetongue and what is the timescale for the test results?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Pirbright Institute is the National Reference Laboratory for Bluetongue diagnosis. As its capacity is being stretched by the current outbreak, additional surge testing will be undertaken at the APHA laboratory in Weybridge.
The Welsh Government is part of the Bluetongue Vaccine Taskforce, that works to improve the supply of vaccine available for use in Great Britain. The Task Force comprises all three GB administrations, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, farming industry representatives and members of the veterinary associations.
Vaccine manufacturers and wholesalers regularly attend the Task Force meetings and are currently importing products from Northern Ireland and Europe to help meet demand in GB. They advise that commercial decisions around further imports and vaccine production runs are dependent on demand from industry. All members of the Task Force are urging farmers and vets to place orders for vaccine to demonstrate demand and ensure additional supplies are made available.
WQ100088 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Cabinet Minister have to review the Welsh Government's decision not to publish the Decision Maker's Guidance relating to the Welsh Government's Discretionary Assistance Fund?
Answered by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
The Decision Maker’s Guide is an internal, operational document that is shared between Welsh Government and NEC Software Solutions, the contractor who delivers the Discretionary Assistance Fund and will therefore not be published. The eligibility criteria is published at https://www.gov.wales/discretionary-assistance-fund-daf/eligibility.
WQ100091 · Tabled · Answered
What action is the Welsh Government taking to recruit more midwifes in the Welsh NHS, in light of Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board's suspension of the NHS home birth service at Tirion birth centre?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Social Care, Mental Health and Women’s Health
Substantive response
WQ100090 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions have Welsh Government officials had with representatives of Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board about the suspension of the NHS home birth service at Tirion birth centre?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Social Care, Mental Health and Women’s Health
Substantive response.
WQ100089 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Welsh Government publish a list setting out all eligibility criteria for its discretionary assistance fund?
Answered by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
The eligibility criteria for the Discretionary Assistance Fund is published online at https://www.gov.wales/discretionary-assistance-fund-daf/eligibility.
WQ100075 · Tabled · Answered
Further to the Cabinet Minister's comments in Plenary on 9 June 2026, in which she confirmed Welsh Government will stand up to all forms of anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric, will she provide an exhaustive list of all identities Welsh Government includes within the + in this phrase?
Answered by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
This question was answered in response to WQ10025(e)
Official verbatim record: each question and answer as the Record prints it. Answers are signed with a job title, as published.