Siambr · Huw Thomas
Written questions
65 written questions on record from the Seventh Senedd on, newest first. Page 1 of 2.
WQ101148 · Tabled · No answer published
What assistance is the Welsh Government providing to vulnerable people to ensure they are not being taken advantage of by unscrupulous tradespeople?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
WQ101085 · Tabled · No answer published
What impact assessment did the Welsh Government carry out before changing the allocation of food poverty funding to favour rural areas?
To be answered by: Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
WQ101089 · Tabled · No answer published
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm a) whether the surveys undertaken at Victoria Wharf, Cardiff were commissioned by the Welsh Government, b) whether the Welsh Government expects Taylor Wimpey to remedy internal defects identified, and c) the date by which the scope of internal remediation works at Victoria Wharf is expected to be finalised?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
WQ101088 · Tabled · No answer published
What consultation has the Welsh Government undertaken with charities, voluntary organisations and other third-sector bodies working to tackle poverty before making any changes to its methodology for allocating funding to alleviate poverty?
To be answered by: Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
WQ101087 · Tabled · No answer published
Has the Welsh Government modelled the impact of applying additional weighting to rurality in the allocation of poverty alleviation funding as opposed to allocating funding on the basis of deprivation and if so, will it publish those findings?
To be answered by: Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
WQ101084 · Tabled · No answer published
Will the Cabinet Minister outline the evidence base being used to justify changes to the allocation methodology for poverty alleviation funding and publish the analysis underpinning those proposals?
To be answered by: Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
WQ101033 · Tabled · No answer published
What steps will the Welsh Government take to ensure that registered social landlords comply with the planning conditions and commitments attached to developments, particularly where planning consent includes provision for community use?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
WQ101075 · Tabled · No answer published
What steps is the Welsh Government taking to ensure registered social landlords honour planning commitments to provide community facilities and reflect their social value in lease terms and charges?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
WQ101032 · Tabled · Answered
Is the Welsh Government committed to continuing clinical networks for major conditions such as lung health, cancer and heart disease?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
Please see my response to WQ100585
WQ100828 · Tabled · Answered
Further to WQ100322, what assessment did the Cabinet Minister make of the impact the Act has had on the tethering of horses, in relation to a) length of time, b) access to shelter, and c) access to exercise, before deciding not to review the Act?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
The Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 provides a mechanism for enforcement authorities to protect the public, landowners and the environment from the problems associated with horse abandonment, straying and fly-grazing. It is not animal welfare legislation and does not regulate the tethering of horses.
Issues relating to the welfare of tethered horses are considered under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which places a legal duty on those responsible for horses to meet their welfare needs, including the provision of suitable shelter, an appropriate diet, necessary veterinary care and the ability to exhibit normal behaviours.
Local authorities have enforcement powers under both Acts and may investigate and take appropriate action where horses are unlawfully present on land or where welfare concerns arise.
WQ100830 · Tabled · Answered
When does the Welsh Government expect lung cancer screening to be rolled out by Cardiff and Vale University Health Board?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government is working with Public Health Wales to introduce a national targeted lung cancer screening programme across Wales. Screening is planned to commence on an all-Wales basis from April 2028, with a phased roll-out, initially inviting those in the highest-risk age groups before expanding to the wider eligible population.
WQ100829 · Tabled · Answered
Further to WQ100322, did the Cabinet Minister consult with partners in local government and the RSPCA before deciding not to review the Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 in relation to tethering?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
Officials regularly engage with local authorities, the RSPCA and other equine welfare stakeholders on a range of horse welfare issues, including tethering and the appropriate use of existing enforcement powers where welfare concerns arise. This ongoing engagement helps identify emerging issues, share good practice and inform consideration of opportunities to improve welfare outcomes for horses in Wales.
WQ100585 · Tabled · Answered
Is the Welsh Government committed to continuing clinical networks for major conditions such as lung health, cancer and heart disease?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government recognises the important contribution that national clinical networks have made in supporting service improvement and collaboration across a range of major conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory disease. The future organisation and structure of these functions sit with NHS Wales Performance and Improvement (NHSPI), which is currently undergoing an organisational change process. As this is an operational matter for NHSPI, it would not be appropriate for the Welsh Government to comment.
The Welsh Government remains clear about its priorities for improving outcomes in major conditions such as cancer, heart disease and respiratory disease. We expect NHSPI's future arrangements, once determined, to align with Welsh Government priorities and to be well positioned to support NHS Wales in delivering service improvement, reducing unwarranted variation and improving outcomes for patients.
WQ100584 · Tabled · Answered
What is the Welsh Government doing to reduce waiting lists and expand access to pulmonary rehabilitation in Caerdydd Penarth?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The NHS in Wales is responsible for providing access to pulmonary rehabilitation services for appropriate patients. The Welsh Government expects the NHS to deliver care in line with recommended clinical practice from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, and the British Thoracic Society. With regard to pulmonary rehabilitation, the Welsh Government has set a national planning expectation in the Quality Statement for Respiratory Disease, established a national clinical network to support service collaboration, and funds a national audit of respiratory care to support local service improvement.
WQ100583 · Tabled · Answered
When does the Welsh Government expect lung cancer screening will be rolled out in Cardiff and Vale University Health Board?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government is working with Public Health Wales to introduce a national targeted lung cancer screening programme across Wales. Screening is planned to commence on an all-Wales basis from April 2028, with a phased roll-out, initially inviting those in the highest-risk age groups before expanding to the wider eligible population.
WQ100546 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister provide an update on the proposed Glyndŵr National Park?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Government Effectiveness & the Constitution
The next steps for the Glyndŵr National Park Designation Order are currently under consideration by Welsh Ministers. Given the significance of the decision, Ministers are giving full and careful consideration to the available evidence, including the objections and representations received through the statutory designation and notification period processes. As a decision has not yet been reached, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the potential outcome. For the same reason, I am unable to provide a definitive timetable for any announcement at this stage. However, I recognise the importance of providing clarity to interested parties once Ministers have concluded their deliberations, and further information will be made available in due course.
WQ100459 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister introduce a timetable to deliver the quality statement for neurological conditions?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
Quality Statements are intended to drive continuous improvement and therefore do not have a fixed end date or implementation timetable. Through the Quality Statement for Neurological Conditions, the Welsh Government has set out its expectations for improving outcomes and ensuring people of all ages living with, or affected by, neurological conditions have timely and equitable access to high-quality services. We set out our aims in the Quality Statement for neurological conditions.
Health boards and NHS trusts are expected to use Quality Statements to underpin the planning and delivery of high-quality services in line with clinical standards and guidelines, including from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Health boards and trusts are supported nationally by NHS Wales Performance and Improvement to implement these standards across care pathways.
WQ100460 · Tabled · Answered
What work is the Welsh Government undertaking to identify the future skills requirements of the marine energy and offshore wind sectors over the next ten years, and when will this work next be published?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education
The Welsh Government works closely with industry, the skills sector and other public sector partners to identify the future skills requirements of the marine energy and offshore wind sectors.
The Future Skills Summit on 8 October will bring together a wide range of stakeholders to discuss current and future workforce needs across priority sectors including renewable energy. The Welsh Government is also undertaking a National Skills Audit to strengthen our evidence base on future skills needs. The findings of the audit will help inform future policy and investment decisions across a range of programmes and sectors, including marine energy and offshore wind.
Officials work closely on an ongoing basis with Marine Energy Wales, the UK Government's Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), the Offshore Wind Growth Partnership, Regional Skills Partnerships, Medr and employers to understand current and emerging workforce challenges and opportunities. This engagement helps ensure that Welsh skills provision is informed by the latest intelligence on sector developments, investment pipelines and future occupational demand.
WQ100458 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions has the Welsh Government had with NHS Wales Performance and Improvement to assist them in supporting Cardiff and Vale University Health Board to deliver the quality statement for mental health?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Social Care, Mental Health and Women’s Health
We have introduced new accountability arrangements where NHS Wales Performance and Improvement (NHSWPI) sits at the centre of system oversight, assurance, improvement and intervention. It acts as principal day-to-day interface with NHS organisations, reducing duplication and creating a more coherent accountability system. NHSWPI leads risk-based operational review meetings with NHS organisations.
It has also been confirmed that NHSWPI will report into the newly established Healthcare Quality and Improvement Board, which is chaired by the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) and Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), and is responsible for setting national strategic priorities for quality, safety and improvement which over time will support the delivery of the quality statement.
We have also confirmed to NHSWPI their role in providing national leadership and coordination to health boards in the delivery of seamless, person-centred mental health services as part of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy. This will include a focus on the implementation of the quality statement and the introduction of our open access approach which is embedded within the statement.
WQ100457 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Cabinet Minister given to following the UK Government's decision to increase the cap on fixed penalty notices to £5,000 for fly-tipping?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
We are currently consulting on proposals in the Rural Proofing and Environmental Sustainability White Paper to increase the upper limit of fixed penalty notices for unauthorised waste (fly-tipping) offences to £5,000.
WQ100456 · Tabled · Answered
What progress has the Welsh Government made in meeting the commitments of the skills summit held in north Wales to ensure Wales has the skills required to take advantage of the small modular reactor development in Wales?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
This Government is taking a dual national and regional approach to ensuring Wales has the skills needed to support future Small Modular Reactor development and the wider low carbon energy economy.
The National Skills Summit this October and ongoing National Skills Audit will strengthen the evidence base for skills planning, including in engineering, construction, digital, advanced manufacturing and net zero, supporting the government’s productivity agenda.
Regional engagement remains central to this work, Officials are already working closely with key stakeholders including the North Wales Tertiary Alliance, North Wales Regional Skills Partnership, and developing nuclear skills hub, so that national planning reflects the workforce needs and opportunities associated with Wylfa and its supply chain.
WQ100418 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister publish the number of households in each local authority area expected to benefit from the extension of Help to Buy – Wales?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
I was pleased to extend Help to Buy-Wales until March 2027 to help support up to 400 additional households to buy a new build home. The scheme is demand-led, and delivery is driven by where new homes are being built and customer demand.
Consequently, please find links to the latest details available on applications and their completion status, as well as historical completions by local authority area below.
Help to Buy: Number of Wales applications by completion status | StatsWales
Help to Buy: Wales Completed Purchases by Date, Local Authority and First Time Buyer | StatsWales
WQ100408 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Cabinet Minister given to any health inequalities between communities within Caerdydd Penarth, and what action is the Welsh Government taking to reduce such inequalities?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Public and Preventative Health
Tackling health inequalities is a priority for this Government. We are committed to improving housing, tackling poverty, supporting healthy communities and increasing access to preventative services, to ensure that everyone has a fair opportunity to live a healthy life, regardless of where they live.
The Health Impact Assessment (Wales) Regulations 2025, come into force in April 2027, and will ensure public bodies consider the impact of their decisions on population health and health inequalities.
We are also taking forward the Health Equity Wales programme, applying the internationally recognised Marmot principles to reduce health inequalities. Cardiff is one of the early adopter areas working with us and places across Wales to strengthen leadership, improve collaboration, listen to communities and drive evidence-based action on the wider determinants of health.
WQ100404 · Tabled · Answered
How many empty homes has the empty homes grant brought back into use in each local authority since the scheme began?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
The demand-led Empty Homes Grant forms an important role in bringing private homes back into use in Wales. This is why I was pleased to recently extend the scheme for new applications to 31 March 2027. I am also pleased that all local authorities have now agreed to join the scheme in this financial year, with Cardiff amongst those having joined.
As of August 2026, the scheme has brought a total of 657 homes back into use since inception. This can be broken down by local authority as follows:
Local Authority
Completions
Blaenau Gwent
38
Bridgend
32
Caerphilly
59
Carmarthenshire
66
Ceredigion
17
Conwy
14
Denbighshire
6
Gwynedd
25
Merthyr
29
Monmouthshire
17
Neath Port Talbot
62
Pembrokeshire
22
Powys
19
Rhondda Cynon Taf
148
Swansea
59
Vale of Glamorgan
33
Ynys Mon
11
WQ100403 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions has the Cabinet Minister had with Cardiff Council regarding projects that can be supported through the Tour de France legacy fund to strengthen the city's cycling infrastructure and visitor offer?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
The Croeso i Feicwyr Fund was launched in July 2026 to support projects that improve cycling infrastructure, facilities and visitor experiences throughout Wales. The initiative aims to make Wales a more attractive destination for cycling tourism, encouraging both dedicated cyclists and visitors who choose to cycle as part of their trips.
Local authorities, including Cardiff, were invited to a virtual meeting on 15 July 2026 to update them on work around the Grand Départ Tour de France 2027, and to outline the details of the Croeso i Feicwyr Fund.
Expressions of interest for the fund closed on 7 August 2026. Subsequently, officials have arranged to meet with Cardiff Council to discuss their submissions, prior to the application closing date (2 October 2026).
WQ100402 · Tabled · No answer published
Will the Cabinet Minister provide a detailed timeline for the implementation of the regulations required to allow Welsh victims of the building safety scandal to apply to the Residential Property Tribunals for Remediation Orders and Remediation Contribution Orders against responsible building owners and developers?
To be answered by: Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
WQ100322 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Cabinet Minister given to commissioning a further review of the Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 to address animal welfare concerns associated with tethering?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
There are currently no plans to review the Control of Horses (Wales) Act 2014 in relation to tethering. The existing legislative framework, supported by the Code of Practice for the Welfare of Equines and available enforcement powers, provides a robust basis for protecting equine welfare.
WQ100321 · Tabled · Answered
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the impact of funding rates under the new childcare offer on providers’ ability to pay all childcare workers at least the real living wage?
Answered by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
We are committed to creating an environment where childcare providers can thrive. Through the current annual rate review process, the Welsh Government seeks the views of childcare settings delivering funded childcare through an Annual Survey. These findings, alongside information gathered through Care Inspectorate Wales’ Self-Assessment of Service Statement (SASS), are used to inform the annual rate review for funded childcare.
Although the delivery model and funding arrangements for the expanded childcare offer have yet to be agreed, our analytical work is considering the impact of different funding rates on provider sustainability. This includes evidence on overall operating costs and workforce costs, rather than a specific assessment against the real Living Wage. The findings will inform decisions on future funding arrangements. Individual childcare providers will remain responsible for setting the pay and conditions of their staff, in line with their legal obligations. The Welsh Government encourages all employers receiving Welsh Government support, including in the childcare sector, to pay at least the Real Living Wage.
WQ100320 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister provide the details of any discussions held with internal and external stakeholders regarding the suitability of the current planning and regulatory framework for data centre developments, including the dates of those discussions, the organisations represented and any actions arising from these discussions?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
Details of ministerial meetings are published routinely as part of the Welsh Government’s transparency arrangements.
We believe in a sustainable and balanced approach to developing Data Centres. Any proposed data centre development remains subject to the existing planning system and environmental regulation, with robust checks and balances in place to ensure that environmental and community impacts are properly considered before consent is granted. Planning policy is also kept under constant review, and we have the option to introduce specific planning policies in relation to data centres if considered necessary. This is being actively considered.
Wales is increasingly being recognised as a strategic location for the infrastructure needed to support the digital economy. Investment in data centres has the potential to create new economic opportunities and support skilled employment. But the Welsh Government believes that the benefits of any investment must be felt by businesses, communities and in the wider Welsh economy.
WQ100314 · Tabled · Answered
What assessment has the Cabinet Minister made of any impact on Wales of the proposed UK Government changes to planning regulations relating to vape shops in England, and what consideration has the Welsh Government given to introducing similar planning restrictions in Wales?
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.
This August, the Welsh Government established the Town Centre Taskforce, which will consider a range of issues affecting town centres across Wales, including the diversity of town centre uses and potential planning reforms to support vibrant and sustainable town centres.
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.
WQ100230 · Tabled · Answered
What requests, if any, has the Cabinet Minister received to call-in planning applications on data centre developments, and will she provide details of each request, including a) the date received, b) the development concerned, and c) whether the request was granted or refused?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
Four requests have been received to call-in planning application 26/00109/HYB for the demolition of existing structures and redevelopment of Cardiff East Park and Ride, Eastern Avenue, Cardiff to provide a data centre and associated buildings, structures, car parking, access roads, landscaping and a bridge across the Rhymney River. The requests were received on 22 May 2026, 16 July 2026, 20 August 2026 and 21 August 2026. The requests are under consideration.
One previous request was also received to call-in planning application 24/00624/FUL for the partial removal of fill material, undertaking of reprofiling groundworks, and the installation of an energy park (comprising battery energy storage facility, associated substation and ancillary buildings) and data centre, along with access, parking, drainage, landscaping, and associated works at land at Rover Way, Splott, Cardiff. The request was received on 28 February 2025. The Welsh Ministers decided they would not call-in the application for their own determination.
WQ100147 · Tabled · Answered
What engagement has the Cabinet Minister had with local authorities ahead of launching the Arwain national school of government to develop a One Wales Public Service, and how will councils participate in the programme as a result of those discussions?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Government Effectiveness & the Constitution
Welsh Government is working alongside local government in preparing for the launch of Arwain and this engagement will make a valuable contribution to the development of this work. A local authority representative will sit on the Arwain Steering Board and local authorities will be able to access the programmes delivered through Arwain. The programme offer is currently being developed, with officials already engaging stakeholders to identify content that would best support the wider One Welsh Public Service ambition of strengthening collaboration, shared values, leadership and capability across Wales’ public sector.
WQ100146 · Tabled · Answered
What discussions has the Welsh Government had with universities, marine energy industries and local partners to support Cardiff's role as a centre for marine energy expertise and ensure Wales develops the skilled workforce needed for future offshore wind and marine energy projects?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
Marine energy is an important part of Wales’ clean energy ambitions. The Welsh Government has worked closely with Cardiff University, Marine Energy Wales, and other key stakeholders to develop Wales’ marine energy capability.
Cardiff Capital Region is leading work to develop a tidal lagoon project and Welsh Government officials are helping to steer that work. The Welsh Government also continues to work with the four Regional Skills Partnerships, including the South West Regional Learning and Skills Partnership, which covers South Wales, to identify skills priorities at both regional and sub-regional levels.
The Welsh Government also supports employers through the Flexible Skills Programme, which provides match funding for training that helps businesses to address skills gaps, retain existing staff and attract new talent.
WQ100143 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister provide details of the work being undertaken to improve the quality, consistency and accessibility of cancer data across NHS Wales, including the collection and publication of data on patient outcomes, experience and health inequalities by demographic group?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government is bringing forward a National Cancer Strategy – the first of its kind in twenty years - which will set out its approach to improving the quality, consistency and use of cancer data and the publication of data on cancer care and outcomes. In parallel with the development of the Strategy, the Welsh Government is working with health boards and Digital Health and Care Wales to refine the requirements for data integration that will permit future improvements to data sharing and reporting, including what demographic data will be used and made publicly available.
WQ100142 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Welsh Government given to ensuring that pay and conditions for light rail drivers employed on the South Wales Metro appropriately reflect the skills, responsibilities and safety-critical nature of their role, including comparisons with equivalent heavy rail positions?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Transport
The majority of the Core Valleys Line (CVL) is a heavy rail network, even though a section of the Cardiff Bay line will transition to light rail. The full network will continue to be operated by Transport for Wales with a common fleet and common traincrew. All drivers (and conductors) will remain on their current heavy rail terms and conditions and there are no plans to change this.
WQ100141 · Tabled · Answered
Will the First Minister provide an update as to the implementation of the Defence Growth Deal for Wales and define the minimum economic benefits the Welsh Government expects it to deliver for Wales?
Answered by First Minister
Implementation of the Defence Growth Deal is progressing through joint working between the Welsh Government, UK Government, industry and other partners. Governance arrangements have been established, including an Executive Board and supporting working groups, to oversee delivery of the Deal's objectives and coordinate activity across the priority workstreams.
The Welsh Government continues to work closely with the UK Government and industry partners to maximise the benefits of the Deal and ensure that the opportunities it creates support sustainable economic growth, innovation and quality jobs across Wales.
An ethical defence framework is being developed, informed by discussions with Scottish Government and Northern Ireland Executive counterparts, and will guide future engagement with the relevant sectors.
WQ100119 · Tabled · Answered
What guidance is the Welsh Government providing to renewable energy developers and local planning authorities to ensure communities hosting major developments receive meaningful and lasting local economic and community benefits?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
Planning Policy Wales and associated energy planning guidance encourage early and meaningful engagement with local communities and support renewable energy developments that deliver social, economic, and environmental benefits. Local planning authorities are expected to take account of these policies when considering proposals.
We are clear that communities hosting major renewable energy developments should benefit from such projects. We are developing our policy to create stronger requirements for local ownership in Wales and through our Welsh Public Energy Company we will ensure we develop more clean energy that is owned in Wales for the benefit of Wales.
WQ100071 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Cabinet Minister given to introducing a national prohibition on pavement parking, bringing Wales into line with the approach now being taken in Scotland and England?
Welsh text as published
Pa ystyriaeth y mae'r Gweinidog Cabinet wedi'i rhoi i gyflwyno gwaharddiad cenedlaethol ar barcio ar balmentydd, gan gysoni Cymru â'r dull sy'n cael ei ddefnyddio nawr yn yr Alban a Lloegr?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Transport
This Government is committed to enabling and encouraging more people to make everyday journeys on foot. Pavement parking undermines that aim and can create barriers for pedestrians, particularly disabled people, older people, and those with pushchairs. We are seeking to change driver behaviour by raising awareness that pavements are for pedestrians, not vehicles, supported by the deterrent of effective enforcement.
Currently the responsibility for ensuring that motorists do not park on pavements is a complex issue, shared between local authorities and the police. They can address on-street and pavement parking through various measures, such as enforcing legislation on obstruction and dangerous parking, designating limited ‘no pavement parking’ areas through Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) or by establishing a special parking area.
Officials have been in discussions with Transport Scotland and the Department for Transport and are considering how best to provide local authorities across Wales with further powers to tackle pavement parking.
Welsh text as published
Mae’r Llywodraeth hon wedi ymrwymo i alluogi ac annog mwy o bobl i wneud teithiau pob dydd ar droed. Mae parcio ar balmentydd yn tanseilio’r nod yna a gall greu rhwystrau i gerddwyr, ac yn arbennig bobl anabl, pobl hŷn a’r rhai sy’n defnyddio cadeiriau gwthio. Ein nod yw newid ymddygiad gyrwyr drwy godi ymwybyddiaeth o’r ffaith mai cerddwyr ac nid cerbydau ddylai ddefnyddio palmentydd, gan ddefnyddio camau gorfodi effeithiol i geisio atal parcio ar balmentydd.
O ran pwy sy’n gyfrifol am sicrhau nad yw modurwyr yn parcio ar balmentydd, mae’n fater cymhleth ac yn gyfrifoldeb a rennir gan yr heddlu a’r awdurdodau lleol. Gallant fynd i’r afael ag achosion o barcio ar strydoedd ac ar balmentydd drwy wahanol fesurau, gan gynnwys gorfodi deddfwriaeth ynghylch rhwystrau a pharcio’n beryglus, ardaloedd cyfyngedig a phenodedig ‘lle na chaniateir parcio ar balmentydd’ drwy Orchmynion Rheoleiddio Traffig (TRO) neu drwy sefydlu ardaloedd parcio arbennig.
Mae swyddogion wedi bod yn trafod y mater gyda Transport Scotland a’r Adran Drafnidiaeth ac maent wrthi’n ystyried y ffordd orau o sicrhau bod gan awdurdodau lleol ar draws Cymru fwy o bwerau i fynd i’r afael â pharcio ar balmentydd.
WQ100070 · Tabled · Answered
What are the estimated costs of establishing a standing National Commission?
Welsh text as published
Beth yw'r costau amcangyfrifedig ar gyfer sefydlu Comisiwn Cenedlaethol sefydlog?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Government Effectiveness & the Constitution
I will write to you as soon as possible with a substantive response and a copy of the letter will be published on the internet.
Welsh text as published
Ysgrifennaf atoch cyn gynted â phosibl gydag ymateb sylweddol a bydd copi o'r llythyr yn cael ei chyhoeddi ar y rhyngrwyd.
WQ100069 · Tabled · Answered
What are the estimated costs for creating a steering board to oversee the development of Arwain?
Welsh text as published
Beth yw'r costau amcangyfrifedig ar gyfer creu bwrdd llywio i oruchwylio datblygiad Arwain?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Government Effectiveness & the Constitution
The costs associated with Arwain will be published within the budget. However, the Steering Board members will be unpaid volunteers, drawn from across the One Wales Public Service, who are committed to driving the improvements in leadership development and systems thinking we need to see to deliver better outcomes for the people of Wales.
Welsh text as published
Bydd y costau sy'n gysylltiedig ag Arwain yn cael eu cyhoeddi o fewn y gyllideb. Fodd bynnag, bydd aelodau'r Bwrdd Llywio yn wirfoddolwyr di-dâl, o bob rhan o Un Gwasanaeth Cyhoeddus Cymru, sydd wedi ymrwymo i yrru'r gwelliannau mewn datblygu arweinyddiaeth a meddwl systemau y mae angen i ni eu gweld i sicrhau canlyniadau gwell i bobl Cymru.
WQ99973 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister commit to matching the UK Government's announcement of additional business rates relief for pubs, clubs and live music venues in England with a similar discount for eligible Welsh businesses?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Finance
I have noted the UK Government’s announcement on additional support for pubs, clubs and music venues in England. The implications for Wales will be considered once full details, including how this additional support will be funded, are available. Further information is expected as part of the UK Government’s Autumn Statement.
WQ99972 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm the expected Barnet consequential from recent UK Government announcements regarding the £2 bus fare cap and 20 per cent business rates relief for pubs and live music venues in England?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Finance
The UK Government has stated that the details of changes to the Welsh Government settlement arising from these announcements in England will be confirmed at the UK Autumn Budget on Wednesday 28 October 2026.
WQ99971 · Tabled · Answered
Will childcare providers receiving funding via the new childcare offer be required to attain real living wage accreditation and if so, will additional funding be provided to ensure that requirement is financially sustainable?
Answered by Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Minister for Social Justice and Equality
There are currently no plans to require childcare providers delivering government funded childcare to obtain Real Living Wage accreditation. Therefore, no additional funding is planned specifically for this purpose.
WQ99970 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister confirm that the September roll-out of universal free school meals to year 7 and year 8 pupils in households receiving universal credit will take place in full and across all local authorities?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Education and the Welsh Language
In line with my Written Statement, local authorities are currently preparing for delivery and further details will be shared in due course.
WQ99974 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Cabinet Minister outline his engagement with The Crown Estate, Great British Energy and the National Wealth Fund in relation to marine energy and floating offshore wind opportunities in Wales?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
I and my officials engage regularly with The Crown Estate, Great British Energy, and the National Wealth Fund to ensure Wales is well positioned to secure the economic, industrial and community benefits arising from marine energy and floating offshore wind.
Discussions have focused on the significant opportunities presented by the Celtic Sea, fixed offshore wind, and Tidal stream. I have consistently made the case that Wales must be at the forefront of these investments and that Welsh communities should see a fair return from the exploitation of our natural resources.
The Welsh Government will continue to work closely with all partners to secure investment, create high-quality jobs and strengthen Wales’s role in the transition to a cleaner and more secure energy system.
WQ99929 · Tabled · Answered
What assessment has the Cabinet Minister made of the impact of reducing the number of commissioned Speech and Language Therapy training places in Wales for the 2026-27 academic year on applicants and the future speech and language therapy workforce?
Welsh text as published
Pa asesiad y mae'r Gweinidog Cabinet wedi'i wneud o effaith lleihau nifer y lleoedd hyfforddi Therapi Iaith a Lleferydd a gomisiynwyd yng Nghymru ar gyfer blwyddyn academaidd 2026-27 ar ymgeiswyr a'r gweithlu therapi iaith a lleferydd yn y dyfodol?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
Decisions on education commissioning are informed by workforce planning, service needs and affordability considerations. While the number of commissioned Speech and Language Therapy training places for 2026-27 has reduced, places continue to be commissioned to support the future workforce needs of NHS Wales.
I recognise the concerns this decision may have caused for applicants and the profession. For that reason, officials continue to engage with key stakeholders, including the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT), to understand the potential implications for the workforce and future supply.
I have also agreed to meet the RCSLT after the summer recess to discuss these matters further. This will provide an opportunity to hear directly from the profession and discuss how we can continue to support a sustainable Speech and Language Therapy workforce in Wales.
We will continue to keep workforce requirements under review to ensure future education commissioning decisions are informed by the best available evidence and aligned to the needs of patients and services.
Welsh text as published
Mae penderfyniadau comisiynu o ran addysg yn cael eu llywio gan faterion cynllunio'r gweithlu, anghenion gwasanaeth ac ystyriaethau fforddiadwyedd. Er bod nifer y lleoedd hyfforddi Therapi Iaith a Lleferydd a gomisiynwyd ar gyfer 2026-27 wedi lleihau, mae lleoedd yn parhau i gael eu comisiynu i gefnogi anghenion gweithlu GIG Cymru yn y dyfodol.
Rwy'n cydnabod y pryderon y gallai'r penderfyniad hwn fod wedi'u hachosi i ymgeiswyr a'r proffesiwn. Am y rheswm hwnnw, mae swyddogion yn parhau i ymgysylltu â rhanddeiliaid allweddol, gan gynnwys Coleg Brenhinol y Therapyddion Iaith a Lleferydd (RCSLT), i ddeall y goblygiadau posibl i'r gweithlu a'r cyflenwad yn y dyfodol.
Rwyf hefyd wedi cytuno i gwrdd â'r RCSLT ar ôl toriad yr haf i drafod y materion hyn ymhellach. Bydd hyn yn gyfle i glywed yn uniongyrchol gan y proffesiwn a thrafod sut y gallwn barhau i gefnogi gweithlu Therapi Iaith a Lleferydd cynaliadwy yng Nghymru.
Byddwn yn parhau i gadw gofynion y gweithlu dan adolygiad i sicrhau bod penderfyniadau comisiynu addysg yn y dyfodol yn cael eu llywio gan y dystiolaeth orau sydd ar gael ac yn cyd-fynd ag anghenion cleifion a gwasanaethau.
WQ99928 · Tabled · Answered
What guidance has the Welsh Government given to adopting the AquaClusters delivery model developed through Cardiff's Nofio Ysgol Caerdydd pilot, including shared transport arrangements and cluster-based pool provision, as part of the national rollout of the Nofio Ysgol programme?
Welsh text as published
Pa ganllawiau y mae Llywodraeth Cymru wedi'u rhoi i fabwysiadu'r model cyflawni AquaClusters a ddatblygwyd drwy gynllun peilot Nofio Ysgol Caerdydd, gan gynnwys trefniadau cludiant a rennir a darparu pyllau ar sail clwstwr, fel rhan o gyflwyno'r rhaglen Nofio Ysgol yn genedlaethol?
Answered by Trefnydd, Chief Whip and Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport
Learning from the evaluation of the Cardiff School Swimming Project pilot, including the Aqua Clusters approach, shared transport arrangements and cluster-based pool provision has been used to inform the development of the new Nofio Ysgol programme.
A place-based approach – developed within the national framework - will be vital in each of the nine pathfinder local authorities, including Cardiff, in phase one of Nofio Cymru, and we will continue to monitor progress to inform best practice in phase two.
Welsh text as published
Mae’r gwersi a ddysgwyd oddi wrth gynllun peilot Nofio Ysgol Caerdydd, gan gynnwys dull Aqua Clusters, trefniadau rhannu cludiant a darpariaeth pyllau ar sail clwstwr wedi cael eu defnyddio i lywio’r gwaith o ddatblygu rhaglen newydd Nofio Ysgol.
Bydd dull sy’n seiliedig ar le – wedi’i ddatblygu o fewn y fframwaith cenedlaethol – yn hanfodol ymhob un o’r naw awdurdod lleol arweiniol, gan gynnwys Caerdydd, yng Ngham un o Nofio Cymru, a byddwn yn parhau i fonitro’r cynnydd er mwyn nodi’r arferion gorau ar gyfer cam dau.
WQ99898 · Tabled · Answered
Will any projects and initiatives be defunded or cut by Creative Wales in order to fund the new in-year funding commitment for a Shadow Broadcasting and Communications Authority Working Group and if so, which ones?
Welsh text as published
A fydd unrhyw brosiectau a mentrau yn cael eu dad-ariannu neu eu torri gan Gymru Greadigol er mwyn ariannu'r ymrwymiad cyllido newydd yn ystod y flwyddyn ar gyfer Gweithgor Awdurdod Darlledu a Chyfathrebu Cysgodol ac, os felly, pa rai?
Answered by Trefnydd, Chief Whip and Cabinet Minister for Culture and Sport
No projects will be defunded or cut by Creative Wales to fund the commitment for a Shadow Broadcasting and Communications Authority Working Group.
Welsh text as published
Ni fydd unrhyw brosiectau’n cael eu dad-ariannu na’u torri gan Gymru Greadigol i ariannu’r ymrwymiad i sefydlu Gweithgor Awdurdod Darlledu a Chyfathrebu Cysgodol.
WQ99895 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Cabinet Minister given to exempting post office branches from non-domestic rates, in light of two post office branches closing in Caerdydd Penarth, reflecting a wider pattern of closures across Wales, and recognising their economic and social value to the communities they serve?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Finance
There are existing arrangements in the non-domestic rates system which continue to support post offices in Wales. Enhanced Small Business Rates Relief applies to post offices, where those with a rateable value up to £9,000 receive full (100%) relief and those with a rateable value between £9,000 and £12,000 receive 50% relief.
In addition, a lower retail multiplier applies in Wales from 1 April 2026. The retail multiplier is intended to help re-balance the non-domestic rates system in favour of small to medium sized shops, through a 30% reduction in liability. This also applies to post offices, recognising the broader retail service they provide.
WQ99887 · Tabled · Answered
What consideration has the Welsh Government given to the role of existing community-based audiology providers in the implementation of its future approach to audiology services framework?
Welsh text as published
Pa ystyriaeth y mae Llywodraeth Cymru wedi'i roi i rôl darparwyr awdioleg cymunedol presennol wrth weithredu fframwaith dull y gwasanaethau awdioleg yn y dyfodol?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Health and Care
The Welsh Government has given significant consideration to the role of existing community-based audiology providers in the implementation of its Future Approach for Audiology Services (2025). The framework, developed in collaboration with stakeholders across Wales, builds on successful community models already delivering services in NHS Wales. The approach recognises community audiology provision is important in supporting delivery of care closer to home, improving patient access and releasing capacity within GP, community nursing and hospital ENT services. The framework seeks to expand and strengthen NHS Wales community provision as part of an integrated model of care creating robust strengthened joined up services across Wales.
Welsh text as published
Mae Llywodraeth Cymru wedi rhoi ystyriaeth sylweddol i rôl darparwyr awdioleg cymunedol presennol wrth weithredu ei Dull Gweithredu ar gyfer Gwasanaethau Awdioleg yn y Dyfodol (2025). Mae'r fframwaith, a ddatblygwyd mewn cydweithrediad â rhanddeiliaid ledled Cymru, yn adeiladu ar fodelau cymunedol llwyddiannus sydd eisoes yn darparu gwasanaethau o fewn GIG Cymru. Mae'r dull yn cydnabod bod darpariaeth awdioleg gymunedol yn bwysig o ran helpu i ddarparu gofal yn agosach at adref, gwella mynediad i gleifion a rhyddhau capasiti mewn gwasanaethau meddygon teulu, nyrsio cymunedol ac adrannau ENT mewn ysbytai. Nod y fframwaith yw ceisio ehangu a chryfhau darpariaeth gymunedol GIG Cymru fel rhan o fodel integredig o ofal sy'n creu gwasanaethau cydgysylltiedig cadarnach ledled Cymru.
Official verbatim record: each question and answer as the Record prints it. Answers are signed with a job title, as published.