Siambr · Vikki Howells
Written questions
57 written questions on record from the Seventh Senedd on, newest first. Page 1 of 2.
WQ101099 · Tabled · No answer published
What discussions has the Welsh Government had with Uber regarding the provision of accessible private hire vehicles?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
WQ101098 · Tabled · No answer published
What measures is the Welsh Government taking to ensure taxi and private hire vehicle drivers are familiar with Welsh Government accessibility guidance and equality training resources?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
WQ101067 · Tabled · No answer published
What discussions has the Welsh Government had regarding appointing appropriate stakeholders to form the mining legacy working group?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ101066 · Tabled · No answer published
What are the Welsh Government's plans for the formation of the mining legacy working group?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ101007 · Tabled · No answer published
Will the Cabinet Minister provide an update on any discussions the Welsh Government has had with the Health and Safety Executive concerning their forthcoming consultation on whether the approval of glyphosate will be renewed?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ101006 · Tabled · No answer published
Will the Cabinet Minister provide an update on any plans to reduce glyphosate use in public spaces in Wales, given the health and environmental concerns regarding the use of the weedkiller?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ100943 · Tabled · Answered
What is the Welsh Government's policy on the licensing of gamebird releases?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
An independent review of the evidence relating to the environmental impacts of gamebird releases has been commissioned through Environment Platform Wales. The final report is expected shortly and will be considered alongside wider evidence, legal and scientific advice before any decisions are taken on the Welsh Government’s policy on the licensing of gamebird releases.
WQ100942 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Cabinet Minister given to the findings of its independent call for evidence conducted in March 2026 on the environmental impacts of gamebird releases which was intended to inform consideration of a potential future licensing regime?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
Environment Platform Wales, which was commissioned to undertake the review, is expected to submit its final report shortly. The report will be considered alongside wider evidence, legal and scientific advice, before any decisions are taken on the potential introduction of a licensing regime. Any future proposals will be developed in light of the available evidence and will be proportionate, effective and consistent with the Welsh Government's objectives for biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management.
WQ100874 · Tabled · Answered
What assessment has the Cabinet Minister made of whether greyhounds are being brought into racing in Wales before the ban on greyhound racing comes into force?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Greyhound Racing Ban Implementation Group was established to support the transition to a ban on greyhound racing in Wales. Its role includes providing advice on the practical implementation of the ban, identifying potential impacts, and considering measures to mitigate those impacts. The Implementation Groups’ first report was published in September. The report highlights the significant progress made to date and sets out recommendations for the Welsh Government, enforcement bodies, third sector partners and the racing industry. I have responded to the recommendations directed at the Welsh Government. The Group’s next report is due later this year.
Under section 5 of the Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Wales) Act 2026, the ban on greyhound racing will come into force no earlier than 1 April 2027 and no later than 1 April 2030. This implementation window was established to provide a clear and defined transition period, enabling the ban to be introduced in a responsible and well-managed way. The transition period is intended to ensure the industry has sufficient time to wind down its activities, that appropriate rehoming arrangements are in place for affected greyhounds, and that enforcement authorities and local authorities are fully prepared for the changes.
Until the ban comes into force, greyhound racing remains lawful in Wales. This means trainers previously associated with tracks that have closed elsewhere are legally able to race at Valley Greyhound Stadium.
It is difficult to determine precisely how many dogs are brought into Wales to race at Valley Greyhound Stadium, as numbers fluctuate. Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) figures cited in the Implementation Group’s first report showed 364 greyhounds registered at the track at that time.
WQ100873 · Tabled · Answered
What recent action has the Welsh Government taken to implement the ban on greyhound racing as soon as practically possible?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Greyhound Racing Ban Implementation Group was established to support the transition to a ban on greyhound racing in Wales. Its role includes providing advice on the practical implementation of the ban, identifying potential impacts, and considering measures to mitigate those impacts. The Implementation Groups’ first report was published in September. The report highlights the significant progress made to date and sets out recommendations for the Welsh Government, enforcement bodies, third sector partners and the racing industry. I have responded to the recommendations directed at the Welsh Government. The Group’s next report is due later this year.
Under section 5 of the Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Wales) Act 2026, the ban on greyhound racing will come into force no earlier than 1 April 2027 and no later than 1 April 2030. This implementation window was established to provide a clear and defined transition period, enabling the ban to be introduced in a responsible and well-managed way. The transition period is intended to ensure the industry has sufficient time to wind down its activities, that appropriate rehoming arrangements are in place for affected greyhounds, and that enforcement authorities and local authorities are fully prepared for the changes.
Until the ban comes into force, greyhound racing remains lawful in Wales. This means trainers previously associated with tracks that have closed elsewhere are legally able to race at Valley Greyhound Stadium.
It is difficult to determine precisely how many dogs are brought into Wales to race at Valley Greyhound Stadium, as numbers fluctuate. Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) figures cited in the Implementation Group’s first report showed 364 greyhounds registered at the track at that time.
WQ100872 · Tabled · Answered
How much will traffic on the M4 in Wales be reduced by as a result of the Government’s proposed junction closures in a) absolute terms and b) percentage terms?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Transport
The report published alongside my Oral Statement of 6 October estimates that the option involving changes to the existing M4 and its management, including junction closures, could reduce traffic on limited sections of the M4 around Newport by up to 3%. The report does not provide an equivalent estimate in absolute vehicle numbers.
It also makes clear that any traffic and performance figures should be regarded as indicative and that further appraisal, modelling, impact assessment and engagement would be required before any decisions are taken.
As I announced on 6 October, no decisions have been taken on any specific interventions. Further work will be undertaken to develop options, assess their impacts and engage with local communities, businesses and other stakeholders before any future decisions are made.
WQ100871 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm whether any of the options for further action outlined in the M4 Around Newport Review have been ruled out by the Welsh Government?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Transport
As I set out in my Oral Statement on 6 October, no decisions have been taken on any specific interventions for the M4 around Newport. The Welsh Government has commissioned an 18‑month study to examine a range of road-based and engineering solutions in more detail before identifying a preferred option.
In the meantime, we are taking forward the programme of improvements announced on 6 October, including continued investment in the renewal and maintenance of the existing motorway and strategic road network, potential improvements to how the motorway is operated and managed around Newport, measures to improve freight resilience, and continued investment in public transport alternatives.
All potential interventions, including measures within the 5‑year programme, will be subject to further development, analysis and engagement with local authorities, stakeholders and communities before any decisions on implementation are taken.
WQ100870 · Tabled · Answered
Is the Welsh Government actively considering the construction of an M4 relief road as an option to relieve congestion around Newport?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Transport
As I set out in my Oral Statement on 6 October, no decisions have been taken on any specific interventions for the M4 around Newport. The Welsh Government has commissioned an 18‑month study to examine a range of road-based and engineering solutions in more detail before identifying a preferred option.
In the meantime, we are taking forward the programme of improvements announced on 6 October, including continued investment in the renewal and maintenance of the existing motorway and strategic road network, potential improvements to how the motorway is operated and managed around Newport, measures to improve freight resilience, and continued investment in public transport alternatives.
All potential interventions, including measures within the 5‑year programme, will be subject to further development, analysis and engagement with local authorities, stakeholders and communities before any decisions on implementation are taken.
WQ100636 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister be attending or sending a delegation to COP17 in October 2026?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
A delegation of Welsh Government officials will attend COP17 in October to represent Wales. They will promote Wales’s contribution to implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework, gather learning to inform the delivery of our Climate and Nature Action Plan, and engage with international partners on mobilising finance for nature.
WQ100435 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm whether any changes to the Welsh Government's policy on bovine TB and the Wales TB Eradication Programme Delivery Plan will be subject to public consultation?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Welsh Government's bovine TB policy is informed by evidence from the independent Bovine TB Technical Advisory Group (TAG), the Animal and Plant Health Agency, wildlife surveillance and Welsh Government-supported research. The TAG and the Bovine TB Eradication Programme Board provide independent scientific, technical and strategic advice to inform policy development and delivery. Their independence is supported through clear terms of reference, public appointments and adherence to the Seven Principles of Public Life.
The Welsh Government is currently considering the available evidence and advice as part of the ongoing policy refresh. I intend to make a statement to the Senedd in the autumn setting out next steps, including how evidence and research will inform future policy development and any arrangements for stakeholder engagement and consultation, where appropriate.
WQ100434 · Tabled · Answered
How does the Welsh Government ensure that the Bovine TB Eradication Programme Board and the bovine TB technical advisory group remain independent of political influence?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Welsh Government's bovine TB policy is informed by evidence from the independent Bovine TB Technical Advisory Group (TAG), the Animal and Plant Health Agency, wildlife surveillance and Welsh Government-supported research. The TAG and the Bovine TB Eradication Programme Board provide independent scientific, technical and strategic advice to inform policy development and delivery. Their independence is supported through clear terms of reference, public appointments and adherence to the Seven Principles of Public Life.
The Welsh Government is currently considering the available evidence and advice as part of the ongoing policy refresh. I intend to make a statement to the Senedd in the autumn setting out next steps, including how evidence and research will inform future policy development and any arrangements for stakeholder engagement and consultation, where appropriate.
WQ100433 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Welsh Government confirm which groups are currently undertaking research relevant to wildlife and bovine TB on behalf of the Welsh Government and how this will be reported on?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Welsh Government's bovine TB policy is informed by evidence from the independent Bovine TB Technical Advisory Group (TAG), the Animal and Plant Health Agency, wildlife surveillance and Welsh Government-supported research. The TAG and the Bovine TB Eradication Programme Board provide independent scientific, technical and strategic advice to inform policy development and delivery. Their independence is supported through clear terms of reference, public appointments and adherence to the Seven Principles of Public Life.
The Welsh Government is currently considering the available evidence and advice as part of the ongoing policy refresh. I intend to make a statement to the Senedd in the autumn setting out next steps, including how evidence and research will inform future policy development and any arrangements for stakeholder engagement and consultation, where appropriate.
WQ100419 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Welsh Government commit to publishing a methane action plan for Wales considering methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases, and in light of the UK Government's own methane action plan published in autumn 2025 and 159 countries having signed up to the Global Methane Pledge?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
We recognise the importance of reducing methane emissions in tackling climate change and they are already addressed through the Welsh Government's statutory approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The scope of the Carbon Budget 3 Delivery Plan includes all greenhouse gases listed under the Environment (Wales) Act 2016, including methane, and sets out the policies and proposals needed to meet Wales's emissions reduction targets.
WQ100340 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm a) whether the recent changes to the Sustainable Farming Scheme were considered by the SFS stakeholder group, and b) what transparent scrutiny and stakeholder engagement processes will apply to any future recommendations arising from the red tape review?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The recent announcement regarding the Animal Health Improvement Cycle does not constitute a change to SFS requirements, but does reduce administrative duplication for members of the relevant Farm Assurance Schemes.
Any further recommendations arising from the review will be for the for Welsh Government to consider how to take forward.
WQ100339 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm whether the land management requirements of the universal actions under the Sustainable Farming Scheme's Universal Actions are within scope of the red tape review?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The scope of the review of the bureaucratic burden on family farms has been captured in the terms of reference.
WQ100338 · Tabled · Answered
What is the Welsh Government doing to prevent cats being bred with extreme features?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
We want to build on the high standards of animal welfare already in place in Wales. We will pursue policies that deliver the greatest welfare gains for animals, targeting action where it can have the most significant and lasting impact. Proportionate, enforceable standards are essential to protect welfare and tackle poor practice. We will work with stakeholders, operational partners, industry and the third sector to develop the new approach for Wales.
The 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
WQ100337 · Tabled · Answered
Does the Welsh Government plan to regulate cat breeding during the Seventh Senedd?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
We want to build on the high standards of animal welfare already in place in Wales. We will pursue policies that deliver the greatest welfare gains for animals, targeting action where it can have the most significant and lasting impact. Proportionate, enforceable standards are essential to protect welfare and tackle poor practice. We will work with stakeholders, operational partners, industry and the third sector to develop the new approach for Wales.
The 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
WQ100259 · Tabled · No answer published
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm whether there is a timetable for the consultation on or implementation of the regulation of animal welfare establishments in Wales?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ100183 · Tabled · No answer published
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the impact of the UK-EU SPS agreement on owned cats in Wales?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ100182 · Tabled · No answer published
What consideration has the Welsh Government given to whether the UK-EU SPS agreement will impact current cat microchipping regulations in Wales?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ100181 · Tabled · No answer published
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of how the UK-EU SPS agreement may impact the need for cat microchipping to be made mandatory?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
WQ100157 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister outline whether there is a timetable for the introduction of compulsory cat microchipping?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
There is currently no timetable for the introduction of compulsory cat microchipping in Wales. The Welsh Government continues to monitor developments and keep policy in this area under review.
There are clear benefits to microchipping, and I encourage all cat owners to ensure their cats are microchipped. Current evidence indicates high levels of voluntary microchipping and record accuracy in Wales.
As part of our wider work to promote responsible pet ownership and improve animal welfare, we will keep the need for any future reforms under review.
WQ100160 · Tabled · Answered
How is Welsh Government working with the UK Government and other devolved governments to introduce a single point of search for pet microchips?
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.
Cross-government efforts to improve the operation of microchip databases and assess the feasibility of establishing a single search portal are ongoing.
WQ100159 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Welsh Government given to a single, searchable microchip database for cat microchipping?
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.
Cross-government efforts to improve the operation of microchip databases and assess the feasibility of establishing a single search portal are ongoing.
WQ100156 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Welsh Government have to educate pet owners on the importance of keeping pet microchip details up to date?
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.
Cross-government efforts to improve the operation of microchip databases and assess the feasibility of establishing a single search portal are ongoing.
WQ100140 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Welsh Government given to introducing legislation to ensure that tenants who want to keep a pet can secure a legal right to request one?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
I am exploring options for introducing legislation to ensure that tenants who want to keep a pet may do so.
WQ100139 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Welsh Government have to ensure people with pets can secure housing tenancies?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
I am exploring options for introducing legislation to ensure that tenants who want to keep a pet may do so.
WQ100129 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions has the Welsh Government had with the UK Government around the impact on Wales of: a) the removal of the "aim to permit"; and b) plans to extend closure orders for shops found to be selling illegal tobacco or similar products for up to twelve months?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Public and Preventative Health
The Welsh Government is committed to reducing the harms associated with gambling and tobacco use, particularly those arising from illegal tobacco and nicotine products.
A key provision of the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 is the introduction of a licensing scheme for retailers in Wales selling tobacco, vaping, and nicotine products. The Welsh Government is committed to making use of these new powers as soon as possible to maximise wider public health benefits and I am currently considering the timescales for its implementation.
Regarding proposals to extend closure orders for shops found to be selling illegal tobacco or similar products for up to twelve months, UK Government officials engaged Welsh Government officials in June 2026, to note the upcoming UK Government consultation on plans to extend closure orders, under the Crime and Policing Act. Welsh Government officials signposted key Welsh stakeholders to UK Government officials, to allow them the opportunity to respond to this consultation directly.
In relation to the proposed removal of the “aim to permit” approach, Welsh Government has had an initial discussion, on 14 August, with the UK Government on the work underway and potential implications for Wales.
Planning officials shared relevant Welsh Government contacts with the UK Government and requested the need for further engagement once its proposals have been developed in greater detail to properly assess consequences and impact.
WQ100128 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Welsh Government have to change planning law so that planning permission is required for new adult gaming centres which offer 24-hour access to gambling machines, as is being proposed for England?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
In Wales, adult gaming centres are already in their own use class, falling within the Sui Generis classification. This gives planning authorities the power to apply local development plan policies to control new adult gaming centres where justified by evidence.
WQ100127 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Welsh Government have to change planning law to tighten the definition of a vape shop to prevent businesses avoiding the rules by describing themselves as a general convenience store or retailer, as is being proposed for England?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
The Welsh Government will consider what contribution the planning system can make towards how vape shops are defined when planning legislation relating to use classes is next reviewed.
WQ100126 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Welsh Government have to change planning law so every new shop selling e-cigarettes or vapes would need to apply to their local council for permission to open, as is being proposed for England?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
The Welsh Government will consider what contribution the planning system can make to address this during the next review of planning legislation relating to use classes. However, planning law may be limited in what it can achieve as the sale of e-cigarettes or vapes may be ancillary to the primary use of a business.
A key provision of the Tobacco and Vapes Act 2026 is the introduction of a licensing scheme for retailers in Wales selling tobacco, vaping, and nicotine products. The Welsh Government is committed to making use of these new powers as soon as possible to maximise wider public health benefits and will be engaging with key stakeholders, including local authorities, on progress and timescales for implementation.
WQ100007 · Tabled · Answered
What is the total estimated cost of establishing a national food strategy group?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The total cost of establishing and operating the Expert Working Group is still being finalised and is not yet available. A Chair has been appointed, and work is underway to agree the group's functions and wider membership, this will inform the overall costs.
WQ99787 · Tabled · Answered
How is the Welsh Government addressing gaps in accessible transport provision across rural Wales?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Transport
The Welsh Government is addressing gaps in accessible transport provision across rural Wales through its Travel for All strategy, which sets out our approach to improving accessibility and inclusion across transport services and infrastructure. As part of the strategy, the Welsh Government has commissioned research to gather evidence and feedback from transport users. This research is helping to identify barriers to travel, shape accessibility improvements and inform future transport planning. User feedback is being sought from people with a range of access needs, including people with disabilities and people living in rural areas, to help ensure the transport network meets the needs of all users. The final report is scheduled to be published in autumn 2026.
Through the Regional Transport Fund, we are providing £115 million in 2026-27 to support transport investment across Wales's four regions, improving accessibility, connectivity and access to opportunity. Accessibility considerations are embedded within regional transport planning and investment processes to help ensure transport improvements respond to the needs of people and communities across Wales, including those living in rural areas.
WQ99786 · Tabled · Answered
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the impact of inaccessible transport on disabled people’s access to employment and public life?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Transport
The Welsh Government recognises that inaccessible transport can create barriers to disabled people’s access to employment, education, healthcare and wider public life. Through a range of research, impact assessments and engagement with disabled people, we have considered how accessibility, affordability, information and other barriers can affect participation and opportunities. This evidence continues to inform transport policy, including the Travel for All strategy and implementation of the Disabled People’s Rights Plan, and The Welsh Government remains committed to further understanding and addressing these barriers.
WQ99785 · Tabled · Answered
How is the Welsh Government ensuring that onward travel from major transport hubs, including Cardiff Central, is consistently accessible?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Transport
The Welsh Government is working with Transport for Wales, local authorities and regional partners to ensure that onward travel from major transport hubs, such as Cardiff Central, is consistently accessible. The Welsh Government’s Travel for All strategy embeds accessibility and inclusion into the design and delivery of transport services and infrastructure across Wales. Our aim is to enable everyone to move easily between different modes of transport such as rail, bus, walking, wheeling and cycling networks.
As part of the Travel for All Strategy Welsh Government has commissioned research to gather evidence and feedback from transport users. This feedback will help to identify barriers, shape accessibility improvements and inform future transport planning. User feedback is being sought from people with a range of access needs such as disabled people and people living in rural areas to ensure the transport network meets the needs of all users. The final report is scheduled to be published in autumn 2026
WQ99784 · Tabled · Answered
What action is the Welsh Government taking to ensure reliable availability of accessible taxis, including for electric wheelchair users?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Transport
The Welsh Government recognises the important role accessible taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs) play in removing barriers to independent travel for disabled people, including powered wheelchair users.
Taxi and PHV licensing is the responsibility of local authorities. To support greater consistency across Wales, the Welsh Government has published guidance for local authorities, including accessibility and equality training resources for drivers.
Disabled passengers can face barriers where taxi and PHV services are not designed, delivered or regulated in ways that are consistently accessible. Some powered wheelchairs also require vehicles with suitable space, access and securing arrangements. Wider equality legislation, including regulations on wheelchair-accessible taxis and PHVs, is reserved to the UK Government. The Law Commission is currently reviewing the legal framework for accessible transport in England and Wales.
Within devolved responsibilities, the Welsh Government is taking action through the Travel for All strategy to identify and remove barriers in transport policy, services and infrastructure, and to embed accessibility and inclusion from the outset. Travel for All User Research, commissioned in January 2026, is gathering evidence on the barriers people experience when using transport in Wales, including taxis, and will inform future policy development. A final report is expected in autumn 2026.
WQ99459 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister commit to ensuring that the evidence base developed for the Welsh Government as part of the review of the Control of Agricultural Pollution Regulations is published before any changes to the regulations are made?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
Any changes to the Control of Agricultural Pollution Regulations will be supported by evidence and will include a regulatory impact assessment
WQ99378 · Tabled · Answered
Which environmental organisations will be invited to contribute to the review of farming bureaucracy announced on 11 June 2026?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Terms of Reference are now published on the Welsh Government website.
Independent review of the bureaucratic burden on family farms | GOV.WALES
https://www.llyw.cymru/adolygiad-annibynnol-or-baich-biwrocrataidd-ar-ffermydd-teuluol
This review will provide an independent, practical assessment of the bureaucratic burden on family farms in Wales. It aims to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and complexity, while retaining our high standards. The scope of the review is set out in the Terms of Reference. The only costs associated with the review are those of the Chair, who will be remunerated at a rate in line with agreed Welsh Government practices.
WQ99377 · Tabled · Answered
How will the environmental impacts of regulations and requirements be considered as part of the review of farming bureaucracy announced on 11 June 2026?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Terms of Reference are now published on the Welsh Government website.
Independent review of the bureaucratic burden on family farms | GOV.WALES
https://www.llyw.cymru/adolygiad-annibynnol-or-baich-biwrocrataidd-ar-ffermydd-teuluol
This review will provide an independent, practical assessment of the bureaucratic burden on family farms in Wales. It aims to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and complexity, while retaining our high standards. The scope of the review is set out in the Terms of Reference. The only costs associated with the review are those of the Chair, who will be remunerated at a rate in line with agreed Welsh Government practices.
WQ99376 · Tabled · Answered
What regulations and requirements will be within the scope of the review of farming bureaucracy announced on 11 June 2026?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Terms of Reference are now published on the Welsh Government website.
Independent review of the bureaucratic burden on family farms | GOV.WALES
https://www.llyw.cymru/adolygiad-annibynnol-or-baich-biwrocrataidd-ar-ffermydd-teuluol
This review will provide an independent, practical assessment of the bureaucratic burden on family farms in Wales. It aims to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and complexity, while retaining our high standards. The scope of the review is set out in the Terms of Reference. The only costs associated with the review are those of the Chair, who will be remunerated at a rate in line with agreed Welsh Government practices.
WQ99375 · Tabled · Answered
Will regulations relating to agricultural pollution be included within the scope of the review of farming bureaucracy announced on 11 June 2026?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Terms of Reference are now published on the Welsh Government website.
Independent review of the bureaucratic burden on family farms | GOV.WALES
https://www.llyw.cymru/adolygiad-annibynnol-or-baich-biwrocrataidd-ar-ffermydd-teuluol
This review will provide an independent, practical assessment of the bureaucratic burden on family farms in Wales. It aims to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and complexity, while retaining our high standards. The scope of the review is set out in the Terms of Reference. The only costs associated with the review are those of the Chair, who will be remunerated at a rate in line with agreed Welsh Government practices.
WQ99374 · Tabled · Answered
When will the terms of reference of the review of farming bureaucracy be published?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Terms of Reference are now published on the Welsh Government website.
Independent review of the bureaucratic burden on family farms | GOV.WALES
https://www.llyw.cymru/adolygiad-annibynnol-or-baich-biwrocrataidd-ar-ffermydd-teuluol
This review will provide an independent, practical assessment of the bureaucratic burden on family farms in Wales. It aims to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and complexity, while retaining our high standards. The scope of the review is set out in the Terms of Reference. The only costs associated with the review are those of the Chair, who will be remunerated at a rate in line with agreed Welsh Government practices.
WQ99373 · Tabled · Answered
What is the estimated total cost of the review of farming bureaucracy announced on 11 June 2026?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Terms of Reference are now published on the Welsh Government website.
Independent review of the bureaucratic burden on family farms | GOV.WALES
https://www.llyw.cymru/adolygiad-annibynnol-or-baich-biwrocrataidd-ar-ffermydd-teuluol
This review will provide an independent, practical assessment of the bureaucratic burden on family farms in Wales. It aims to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and complexity, while retaining our high standards. The scope of the review is set out in the Terms of Reference. The only costs associated with the review are those of the Chair, who will be remunerated at a rate in line with agreed Welsh Government practices.
WQ99324 · Tabled · Answered
Is the £10 million investment for the Nature Networks Fund that was announced on 23 June 2026 new funding or was it previously allocated to the scheme?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The £10million investment for the Nature Networks Fund will restore biodiversity, create jobs and strengthen connections between communities and the natural environment. This funding was agreed in principle as part of the 2026-27 budget allocations.
WQ99323 · Tabled · Answered
Is the Welsh Government continuing the Local Places for Nature Fund?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
We remain committed to delivering the current Local Places for Nature Programme, providing support for communities, nature and the local environment through to 31 March 2027.
We will consider future arrangements for supporting community-led nature and local environment projects in the context of the Climate and Nature Plan.
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