Written questions
5 written questions on record from the Seventh Senedd on, newest first. Page 1 of 1.
WQ100982 · Tabled · Answered
What plans does the Welsh Government have to introduce minimum waiting-time standards for autism assessments, similar to those already in place in parts of England?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Social Care, Mental Health and Women’s Health
Reducing waiting times for autism and other neurodevelopmental assessments is a priority for the Welsh Government. In 2026-27, health boards will receive a share of £5.6 million through the Neurodivergence Improvement Programme to maintain the elimination of over three-year waits for children’s neurodevelopmental assessments and support further reductions in waiting times.
Alongside reducing waits, we are working towards a needs-led approach, where children, young people and families can access appropriate help and support based on their needs, rather than support being dependent on a diagnosis. This is part of our wider work to develop more sustainable and integrated neurodivergence services across Wales.
The development of the Neurodivergence Code of Practice, building on the existing statutory Autism Code of Practice, will also support greater consistency in the delivery of services for neurodivergent people across Wales.
There are no current plans to introduce minimum waiting times for autism assessments in Wales. Our priority is to reduce the length of time people wait for assessment, while developing a needs-led approach.
WQ100950 · Tabled · Answered
What is the Welsh Government’s approach to reducing waiting times for autism assessments?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Social Care, Mental Health and Women’s Health
Reducing waiting times for autism and other neurodevelopmental assessments is a priority for the Welsh Government. In 2026-27, health boards will receive a share of £5.6 million through the Neurodivergence Improvement Programme to maintain the elimination of over three-year waits for children’s neurodevelopmental assessments and support further reductions in waiting times.
Alongside reducing waits, we are working towards a needs-led approach, where children, young people and families can access appropriate help and support based on their needs, rather than support being dependent on a diagnosis. This is part of our wider work to develop more sustainable and integrated neurodivergence services across Wales.
The development of the Neurodivergence Code of Practice, building on the existing statutory Autism Code of Practice, will also support greater consistency in the delivery of services for neurodivergent people across Wales.
There are no current plans to introduce minimum waiting times for autism assessments in Wales. Our priority is to reduce the length of time people wait for assessment, while developing a needs-led approach.
WQ100953 · Tabled · Answered
Does the Welsh Government have any plans to review fees for retrospective planning applications?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Local Government, Housing and Planning
Reforming the planning system is a Programme for Government commitment and planning application fees will be considered as part of that work.
WQ100952 · Tabled · Answered
Will the Welsh Government provide an update on the development of Baglan Bay?
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy
The Welsh Government remains committed to unlocking the long-term economic potential of Baglan Bay as a major strategic employment site. Ground investigation works have been completed, with groundwater monitoring and ecological survey work ongoing to inform the site’s remediation and future development. A strategic Development Framework has also been completed, and work is progressing on the remediation strategy, planning and infrastructure requirements. Given the scale and complexity of the site, delivery will be phased and remains subject to completion of the necessary technical work, regulatory engagement, Ministerial decisions and funding approvals.
WQ100951 · Tabled · Answered
What action is the Welsh Government taking to support specialist endometriosis centres in Wales to maintain the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy’s accreditation requirements?
Answered by Deputy Minister for Social Care, Mental Health and Women’s Health
I have met with the Chair of Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and have been assured that they are committed to maintaining BSGE accreditation and ensuring continued access to complex endometriosis surgery. Officials are also in contact with both Aneurin Bevan and Swansea Bay University Health Boards.
We are taking steps to strengthen the Women’s Health Plan and improve women’s health services, including care for those affected by endometriosis. We will continue to work closely with NHS Wales to support service improvement.
Official verbatim record: each question and answer as the Record prints it. Answers are signed with a job title, as published.