Meetings

NDM5983 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets that a number of hospitals in Wales have been closed or subject to a loss of services in recent years; and

2. Calls on the future Welsh Government to guarantee that there will be no hospital closures during the fifth Assembly.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion.

Believes that the next Welsh Government should instigate and deliver a plan for a substantial increase in the number of doctors so that services can be delivered locally.

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Notes the 2014 Mid Wales Healthcare Study which called for a 'reinvigoration of community hospital and community based services' and calls for the next Welsh Government to provide more health services in communities across Wales.

'Mid Wales Healthcare Study'

The item started at 15.39

The Deputy Presiding Officer suspended proceedings at 15.53 due to a power failure affecting the Siambr. The bell was rung 5 minutes before reconvening at 16.14.

Proceedings were suspended for a second time at 16.23 for 30 mins due to a second power failure. The bell was rung 5 minutes before reconvening at 16.55.

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5983 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets that a number of hospitals in Wales have been closed or subject to a loss of services in recent years; and

2. Calls on the future Welsh Government to guarantee that there will be no hospital closures during the fifth Assembly.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion.

Believes that the next Welsh Government should instigate and deliver a plan for a substantial increase in the number of doctors so that services can be delivered locally.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was not agreed.

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Notes the 2014 Mid Wales Healthcare Study which called for a 'reinvigoration of community hospital and community based services' and calls for the next Welsh Government to provide more health services in communities across Wales.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5983 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets that a number of hospitals in Wales have been closed or subject to a loss of services in recent years; and

2. Calls on the future Welsh Government to guarantee that there will be no hospital closures during the fifth Assembly.

3. Notes the 2014 Mid Wales Healthcare Study which called for a 'reinvigoration of community hospital and community based services' and calls for the next Welsh Government to provide more health services in communities across Wales.

As required by Standing Order 6.20 the Deputy Presiding Officer exercised his casting vote by voting against the motion as amended. Therefore, the motion as amended was not agreed.

NDM5976 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Recognises the importance of empowering individuals and community groups to tackle issues of local significance;

2. Welcomes the campaign to trigger a referendum for the introduction of a directly elected mayor for Cardiff and notes the role that a similar position could play across Wales in enhancing local democracy, accountability and decision-making;

3. Calls on the Welsh Government to take steps to foster a nation of active, informed, involved and engaged citizens by:

(a) introducing referenda on proposed council mergers and local authority council tax rises above a certain threshold so that individuals have more of a say over decision-making in their area;

(b) introducing new powers to better involve individuals in key local resolutions, such as the community right to bid and the community right to challenge, all under a community rights agenda; and

(c) lowering the petition threshold to trigger a referendum on directly elected mayors in a locality.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion):

Delete points 2 and 3 and replace with:

Believes that Plaid Cymru's proposals for local engagement, set out in the public services reform paper, provide a positive basis to achieve the aim of empowering individuals in the next Assembly.

'Public Service Reform: Plaid Cymru Policy Paper'

[If amendment 1 is agreed, amendments 2 and 3 will be de-selected]

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Delete point 2.

Amendment 3 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Delete point 3(a) and insert:

introducing STV for local government elections in order to ensure that councillors are more accountable to their constituents.

The item started at 15.36

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5976 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Recognises the importance of empowering individuals and community groups to tackle issues of local significance;

2. Welcomes the campaign to trigger a referendum for the introduction of a directly elected mayor for Cardiff and notes the role that a similar position could play across Wales in enhancing local democracy, accountability and decision-making;

3. Calls on the Welsh Government to take steps to foster a nation of active, informed, involved and engaged citizens by:

(a) introducing referenda on proposed council mergers and local authority council tax rises above a certain threshold so that individuals have more of a say over decision-making in their area;

(b) introducing new powers to better involve individuals in key local resolutions, such as the community right to bid and the community right to challenge, all under a community rights agenda; and

(c) lowering the petition threshold to trigger a referendum on directly elected mayors in a locality.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion):

Delete points 2 and 3 and replace with:

Believes that Plaid Cymru's proposals for local engagement, set out in the public services reform paper, provide a positive basis to achieve the aim of empowering individuals in the next Assembly.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was not agreed.

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Delete point 2.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was not agreed.

Amendment 3 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Delete point 3(a) and insert:

introducing STV for local government elections in order to ensure that councillors are more accountable to their constituents.

A vote was taken on Amendment 3:

Amendment 3 was not agreed.

As the Assembly did not agree the motion without amendment, and did not agree the amendments tabled to the motion, the motion was therefore not agreed.

NDM5934 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the Welsh Government's draft local government settlement for 2016-17;

2. Regrets proposals to cut funding significantly to many rurally based local authorities across Wales and expresses concern as to the impact this could have on local public services and council tax rates;

3. Further regrets the Welsh Government's failure to sufficiently engage with many rural local authorities across Wales and the WLGA, as to the impact of the 2016-17 local government settlement, leading to great uncertainty in many parts of Wales; and

4. Believes an overhaul of the formula that allocates local government funding in Wales is necessary to prevent many local authorities across Wales being hit disproportionately by Welsh Government settlements.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point after point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Calls for the introduction in this settlement of the rural stabilisation grant proposed by the WLGA.

Amendment 2 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete point 4 and replace with:

Believes that local government reform is an opportunity to agree a new funding formula that takes equity, deprivation and sparsity into account and is delivered over a three-year funding cycle.

The item started at 15.11

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5934 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the Welsh Government's draft local government settlement for 2016-17;

2. Regrets proposals to cut funding significantly to many rurally based local authorities across Wales and expresses concern as to the impact this could have on local public services and council tax rates;

3. Further regrets the Welsh Government's failure to sufficiently engage with many rural local authorities across Wales and the WLGA, as to the impact of the 2016-17 local government settlement, leading to great uncertainty in many parts of Wales; and

4. Believes an overhaul of the formula that allocates local government funding in Wales is necessary to prevent many local authorities across Wales being hit disproportionately by Welsh Government settlements.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point after point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Calls for the introduction in this settlement of the rural stabilisation grant proposed by the WLGA.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

As required by Standing Order 6.20 the Deputy Presiding Officer exercised his casting vote by voting against the amendment. Therefore, the amendment was not agreed.

Amendment 2 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete point 4 and replace with:

Believes that local government reform is an opportunity to agree a new funding formula that takes equity, deprivation and sparsity into account and is delivered over a three-year funding cycle.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was not agreed.

As the Assembly did not agree the motion without amendment, and did not agree the amendments tabled to the motion, the motion was therefore not agreed.

NDM5920 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the findings from the interim report into the Review of Higher Education Funding and Student Finance Arrangements in Wales, which states the existing system is "not sustainable", echoing calls from Universities Wales, the Learned Society of Wales and University and College Union;

2. Recognises the need, identified by the interim report, for the Welsh Government to "revisit the tuition fee grant policy" in Wales;

3. Believes the Welsh Government should remodel higher education funding in Wales, implementing a more sustainable policy and offering greater priority to a progressive system of living cost support.

Independent Review of Higher Education Funding and Student Finance Arrangements

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 2 and renumber accordingly:

Notes the Welsh Liberal Democrat 2013 policy report 'Fairness and Freedom in Higher Education' which calls for a student living support grant, to shift the focus of government assistance from tuition fee debt relief to support for living costs, as a fairer and more effective way of ensuring finance is not a barrier to higher education.

Fairness and Freedom in Higher Education

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 2 and renumber accordingly:

Notes the National Union of Students' policy report, 'Pound in Your Pocket', which found that 58 per cent of students regularly worry about not having enough money to meet their basic living expenses such as rent or utility bills.

Pound in Your Pocket

Amendment 3 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

At end of point 3, insert:

'such as by the introduction of a student living support grant.'

Amendment 4 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Condemns the severe cut to HEFCW's funding in the draft budget 2016-2017, which comes as a direct consequence of the Welsh Government's current fees policy. Believes that this is likely to lead to damaging cuts in support for part time students, research, high cost subjects and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol.

The item started at 15.10

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5920 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the findings from the interim report into the Review of Higher Education Funding and Student Finance Arrangements in Wales, which states the existing system is "not sustainable", echoing calls from Universities Wales, the Learned Society of Wales and University and College Union;

2. Recognises the need, identified by the interim report, for the Welsh Government to "revisit the tuition fee grant policy" in Wales;

3. Believes the Welsh Government should remodel higher education funding in Wales, implementing a more sustainable policy and offering greater priority to a progressive system of living cost support.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 2 and renumber accordingly:

Notes the Welsh Liberal Democrat 2013 policy report 'Fairness and Freedom in Higher Education' which calls for a student living support grant, to shift the focus of government assistance from tuition fee debt relief to support for living costs, as a fairer and more effective way of ensuring finance is not a barrier to higher education.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was not agreed.

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 2 and renumber accordingly:

Notes the National Union of Students' policy report, 'Pound in Your Pocket', which found that 58 per cent of students regularly worry about not having enough money to meet their basic living expenses such as rent or utility bills.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was agreed.

Amendment 3 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

At end of point 3, insert:

'such as by the introduction of a student living support grant.'

A vote was taken on Amendment 3:

Amendment 3 was not agreed.

Amendment 4 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Condemns the severe cut to HEFCW's funding in the draft budget 2016-2017, which comes as a direct consequence of the Welsh Government's current fees policy. Believes that this is likely to lead to damaging cuts in support for part time students, research, high cost subjects and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol.

A vote was taken on Amendment 4:

Amendment 4 was not agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5920 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the findings from the interim report into the Review of Higher Education Funding and Student Finance Arrangements in Wales, which states the existing system is "not sustainable", echoing calls from Universities Wales, the Learned Society of Wales and University and College Union;

2.Notes the National Union of Students' policy report, 'Pound in Your Pocket', which found that 58 per cent of students regularly worry about not having enough money to meet their basic living expenses such as rent or utility bills.

3. Recognises the need, identified by the interim report, for the Welsh Government to "revisit the tuition fee grant policy" in Wales;

4. Believes the Welsh Government should remodel higher education funding in Wales, implementing a more sustainable policy and offering greater priority to a progressive system of living cost support.

The motion as amended was not agreed.

NDM5923 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes that communities across Wales have been devastated by flooding in recent weeks; and pays tribute to the work of all of those who have provided vital support to those communities;

2. Recognises the importance of thorough, collaborative engagement with stakeholders across Wales in the development of a robust, flood prevention strategy; and

3. Calls on the Welsh Government to take immediate, tangible action to support flood-hit communities, including:

a) exploring the viability of providing rate relief to impacted businesses;

b) reviewing how the Trunk Road Agency responds to adverse weather conditions, and in particular assessing the management of the A55 in relation to flooding;

c) providing additional freedoms to farmers and landowners to undertake any necessary clearance of ditches, drains and agricultural channels; and

d) assessing how the Rural Development Programme can better support flood prevention schemes for communities affected by flooding.

Rural Development Programme

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Regrets the failure of the UK Government to apply for EU solidarity funds for flood relief.

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Regrets the decision of the UK Government to cut support for clean energy projects, which threatens our ability to tackle climate change and will increase the risk of extreme weather conditions and flooding in the future.

Amendment 3 - Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

At start of sub-point 3c), insert:

'reviewing the evidence for'

Amendment 4 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new sub-point at end of point 3:

Promoting schemes to alleviate flood risk through innovative land management including by planting trees and vegetation to slow run-off, restoring wetland areas, and creating safe flood reservoirs.

Amendment 5 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to strengthen the planning guidance regarding development on land susceptible to flooding.

Amendment 6 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to make more use of the natural environment in its management of flood risk.

The item started at 16.11

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5923 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes that communities across Wales have been devastated by flooding in recent weeks; and pays tribute to the work of all of those who have provided vital support to those communities;

2. Recognises the importance of thorough, collaborative engagement with stakeholders across Wales in the development of a robust, flood prevention strategy; and

3. Calls on the Welsh Government to take immediate, tangible action to support flood-hit communities, including:

a) exploring the viability of providing rate relief to impacted businesses;

b) reviewing how the Trunk Road Agency responds to adverse weather conditions, and in particular assessing the management of the A55 in relation to flooding;

c) providing additional freedoms to farmers and landowners to undertake any necessary clearance of ditches, drains and agricultural channels; and

d) assessing how the Rural Development Programme can better support flood prevention schemes for communities affected by flooding.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Regrets the failure of the UK Government to apply for EU solidarity funds for flood relief.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was agreed.

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Regrets the decision of the UK Government to cut support for clean energy projects, which threatens our ability to tackle climate change and will increase the risk of extreme weather conditions and flooding in the future.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was agreed.

Amendment 3 - Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

At start of sub-point 3c), insert:

'reviewing the evidence for'

A vote was taken on Amendment 3:

Amendment 3 was agreed.

Amendment 4 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new sub-point at end of point 3:

Promoting schemes to alleviate flood risk through innovative land management including by planting trees and vegetation to slow run-off, restoring wetland areas, and creating safe flood reservoirs.

A vote was taken on Amendment 4:

Amendment 4 was agreed.

Amendment 5 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to strengthen the planning guidance regarding development on land susceptible to flooding.

A vote was taken on Amendment 5:

Amendment 5 was agreed.

Amendment 6 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to make more use of the natural environment in its management of flood risk.

A vote was taken on Amendment 6:

Amendment 6 was agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5923 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes that communities across Wales have been devastated by flooding in recent weeks; and pays tribute to the work of all of those who have provided vital support to those communities;

2. Recognises the importance of thorough, collaborative engagement with stakeholders across Wales in the development of a robust, flood prevention strategy; and

3. Regrets the failure of the UK Government to apply for EU solidarity funds for flood relief.

4. Regrets the decision of the UK Government to cut support for clean energy projects, which threatens our ability to tackle climate change and will increase the risk of extreme weather conditions and flooding in the future.

5. Calls on the Welsh Government to take immediate, tangible action to support flood-hit communities, including:

a) exploring the viability of providing rate relief to impacted businesses;

b) reviewing how the Trunk Road Agency responds to adverse weather conditions, and in particular assessing the management of the A55 in relation to flooding;

c) reviewing the evidence for providing additional freedoms to farmers and landowners to undertake any necessary clearance of ditches, drains and agricultural channels; and

d) assessing how the Rural Development Programme can better support flood prevention schemes for communities affected by flooding.

e) promoting schemes to alleviate flood risk through innovative land management including by planting trees and vegetation to slow run-off, restoring wetland areas, and creating safe flood reservoirs.

6. Calls on the Welsh Government to strengthen the planning guidance regarding development on land susceptible to flooding.

7. Calls on the Welsh Government to make more use of the natural environment in its management of flood risk.

The motion as amended was agreed.

NDM5898 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the UK Government's spending review and autumn statement;

2. Welcomes the introduction of a Barnett Floor at 115 per cent of comparable spending per head in England; and

3. Notes that capital spending in Wales will rise by over £900 million.

Spending Review and Autumn Statement 2015: documents

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 - Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

At the end of point 2 insert:

'and notes the need to have a formal inter-government agreement to secure a long-lasting outcome'

Supported by:

Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Welcomes the UK Government U-turn on scrapping tax credits, but notes with concern that cuts to universal credit could result in similar loss for low-income families by 2020.

Amendment 3 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the delay in the delivery of electrification of the Great Western mainline from London to Swansea and lack of update on the electrification of the North Wales line.

Amendment 4 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the lack of clarity over the extent of financial support for a city deal for Cardiff.

Amendment 5 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the omission of the Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon project from the autumn statement.

Amendment 6 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the 22 per cent cut to the UK Department for Energy and Climate Change, which threatens our ability to meet climate change and decarbonisation targets in Wales.

Amendment 7 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the £1.7 million cut in funding for S4C, despite the Welsh Conservatives manifesto commitment to 'safeguard the funding and editorial independence of S4C'.

The Conservative Party Welsh Manifesto 2015

[If amendment 7 is moved, amendment 13 will be de-selected]

Amendment 8 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the UK Government and the Welsh Government to work together to update the analysis of Gerry Holtham on Wales's underfunding, and then increase the block grant to the equitable level.

Fairness and accountability: a new funding settlement for Wales

Amendment 9 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets that Wales – unlike Scotland and Northern Ireland – will not receive a full Barnett consequential as a result of the high speed 2 project.

Amendment 10 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Notes an increase of around £945 million to Wales's consequential share of increased health spending in England and calls for the Welsh Government to ring-fence this sum for health and care budgets in Wales.

Amendment 11 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the scrapping of nursing bursaries in England and their replacement with loans, which will impact negatively on future workforce planning and recruitment for the NHS in Wales and calls on the Welsh Government to confirm whether funding for nursing studies in Wales will remain.

Amendment 12 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the capping of housing benefit to the local housing allowance rate in the social sector which presents a risk to the most vulnerable and calls on the Welsh Government to clarify the impact of this decision on homelessness and other supported accommodation services in Wales.

Amendment 13 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the UK Government's decision to break a manifesto commitment to protect S4C's budget.

The item started at 16.05

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5898 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the UK Government's spending review and autumn statement;

2. Welcomes the introduction of a Barnett Floor at 115 per cent of comparable spending per head in England; and

3. Notes that capital spending in Wales will rise by over £900 million.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 - Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

At the end of point 2 insert:

'and notes the need to have a formal inter-government agreement to secure a long-lasting outcome'

Supported by:

Aled Roberts (North Wales)

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was agreed.

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Welcomes the UK Government U-turn on scrapping tax credits, but notes with concern that cuts to universal credit could result in similar loss for low-income families by 2020.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was agreed.

Amendment 3 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the delay in the delivery of electrification of the Great Western mainline from London to Swansea and lack of update on the electrification of the North Wales line.

A vote was taken on Amendment 3:

Amendment 3 was agreed.

Amendment 4 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the lack of clarity over the extent of financial support for a city deal for Cardiff.

A vote was taken on Amendment 4:

Amendment 4 was agreed.

Amendment 5 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the omission of the Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon project from the autumn statement.

A vote was taken on Amendment 5:

Amendment 5 was agreed.

Amendment 6 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the 22 per cent cut to the UK Department for Energy and Climate Change, which threatens our ability to meet climate change and decarbonisation targets in Wales.

A vote was taken on Amendment 6:

Amendment 6 was agreed.
Amendment 7 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the £1.7 million cut in funding for S4C, despite the Welsh Conservatives manifesto commitment to 'safeguard the funding and editorial independence of S4C'.

A vote was taken on Amendment 7:

Amendment 7 was agreed.

Amendment 8 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the UK Government and the Welsh Government to work together to update the analysis of Gerry Holtham on Wales's underfunding, and then increase the block grant to the equitable level.

A vote was taken on Amendment 8:

Amendment 8 was agreed.

Amendment 9 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets that Wales – unlike Scotland and Northern Ireland – will not receive a full Barnett consequential as a result of the high speed 2 project.

A vote was taken on Amendment 9:

Amendment 9 was not agreed.

Amendment 10 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Notes an increase of around £945 million to Wales's consequential share of increased health spending in England and calls for the Welsh Government to ring-fence this sum for health and care budgets in Wales.

A vote was taken on Amendment 10:

Amendment 10 was not agreed.

Amendment 11 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the scrapping of nursing bursaries in England and their replacement with loans, which will impact negatively on future workforce planning and recruitment for the NHS in Wales and calls on the Welsh Government to confirm whether funding for nursing studies in Wales will remain.

A vote was taken on Amendment 11:

Amendment 11 was not agreed.

Amendment 12 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the capping of housing benefit to the local housing allowance rate in the social sector which presents a risk to the most vulnerable and calls on the Welsh Government to clarify the impact of this decision on homelessness and other supported accommodation services in Wales.

A vote was taken on Amendment 12:

Amendment 12 was agreed.

As amendment 7 was moved, amendment 13 was de-selected
A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5898 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the UK Government's spending review and autumn statement;

2. Welcomes the introduction of a Barnett Floor at 115 per cent of comparable spending per head in England and notes the need to have a formal inter-government agreement to secure a long-lasting outcome; and

3. Welcomes the UK Government U-turn on scrapping tax credits, but notes with concern that cuts to universal credit could result in similar loss for low-income families by 2020.

4. Notes that capital spending in Wales will rise by over £900 million.

5. Regrets the delay in the delivery of electrification of the Great Western mainline from London to Swansea and lack of update on the electrification of the North Wales line.

6. Regrets the lack of clarity over the extent of financial support for a city deal for Cardiff.

7. Regrets the omission of the Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon project from the autumn statement.

8. Regrets the 22 per cent cut to the UK Department for Energy and Climate Change, which threatens our ability to meet climate change and decarbonisation targets in Wales.

9. Regrets the £1.7 million cut in funding for S4C, despite the Welsh Conservatives manifesto commitment to 'safeguard the funding and editorial independence of S4C'.

10. Calls on the UK Government and the Welsh Government to work together to update the analysis of Gerry Holtham on Wales's underfunding, and then increase the block grant to the equitable level.

11. Regrets the capping of housing benefit to the local housing allowance rate in the social sector which presents a risk to the most vulnerable and calls on the Welsh Government to clarify the impact of this decision on homelessness and other supported accommodation services in Wales.

The motion as amended was agreed.

NDM5896 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Believes that small businesses are an integral part of Wales's national and community economies.

2. Welcomes the role that Small Business Saturday plays in championing Wales's small businesses.

3. Recognises the contribution that small businesses make in ensuring the identity of local communities and promoting their unique culture and heritage;

4. Acknowledges that small, local businesses provide a gateway into employment for many young people; and

5. Calls on the Welsh Government to:

a) Offer a better support package for small businesses to enhance the contribution they make to Welsh socio-economic life;

b) Develop infrastructure across Wales to better serve the growth prospects for Wales's small businesses.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

At the end of sub-point 5a insert:

'including creating a small business administration within a Welsh development bank, tasked with providing business support in a 'one-stop shop' and varied access to finance'

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

At the end of sub-point 5b insert:

'including digital infrastructure'

Amendment 3 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new sub-point at end of point 5:

tackle barriers that prevent microbusinesses in Wales from growing, in order to develop a Welsh "Mittelstand".

Amendment 4 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new sub-point at end of point 5:

extend the small business rate relief scheme to cover all businesses with a rateable value of £15,000 or less, ensure that new enterprises will not pay any business rates for the first year of operation and revaluate properties for business rates purposes every three years.

The item started at 17.05

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5896 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Believes that small businesses are an integral part of Wales's national and community economies.

2. Welcomes the role that Small Business Saturday plays in championing Wales's small businesses.

3. Recognises the contribution that small businesses make in ensuring the identity of local communities and promoting their unique culture and heritage;

4. Acknowledges that small, local businesses provide a gateway into employment for many young people; and

5. Calls on the Welsh Government to:

a) Offer a better support package for small businesses to enhance the contribution they make to Welsh socio-economic life;

b) Develop infrastructure across Wales to better serve the growth prospects for Wales's small businesses.

The motion without amendment was agreed.

NDM5888 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets that levels of litter, dog fouling, fly-tipping and graffiti continue to blight many local communities across Wales.

2. Calls on the Welsh Government to work with local authorities to explore increasing penalties for environmental crime.

3. Recognises the role that recycling can play in minimising waste and ensuring cleaner communities across Wales and urges the Welsh Government to explore innovative solutions to further promote recycling.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 2 and renumber accordingly:

Notes that local authorities can exacerbate this situation by charging for bulk waste collection and closing recycling centres.

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert at end of point 2:

'including on the spot fines in order to clean up our streets and countryside.'

Amendment 3 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert at end of point 3:

'repair, and reuse.'

Amendment 4 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to introduce a deposit return scheme for plastic, glass and can drink containers in Wales.

The item started at 14.46

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5888 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets that levels of litter, dog fouling, fly-tipping and graffiti continue to blight many local communities across Wales.

2. Calls on the Welsh Government to work with local authorities to explore increasing penalties for environmental crime.

3. Recognises the role that recycling can play in minimising waste and ensuring cleaner communities across Wales and urges the Welsh Government to explore innovative solutions to further promote recycling.

The motion without amendment was agreed.

NDM5875 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the negative impact that delayed transfers of care can have on the Welsh NHS and an individual's quality of life;

2. Recognises the importance of ensuring that people in Wales have the necessary support to enable them to remain in their own home for as long as possible; and

3. Believes that introducing the option of a ‘stay at home’ assessment in Wales for all people upon retirement age could provide a key early intervention measure which could prevent hospitalisation and delayed transfers of care upon leaving hospital.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete point 3

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to ensure immediate steps are taken to ensure that bed capacity in the Welsh NHS is maximised, in particular during winter months.

The item started at 16.07

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5875 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the negative impact that delayed transfers of care can have on the Welsh NHS and an individual's quality of life;

2. Recognises the importance of ensuring that people in Wales have the necessary support to enable them to remain in their own home for as long as possible; and

3. Believes that introducing the option of a ‘stay at home’ assessment in Wales for all people upon retirement age could provide a key early intervention measure which could prevent hospitalisation and delayed transfers of care upon leaving hospital.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 - Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete point 3

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was agreed.

Amendment 2 - Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to ensure immediate steps are taken to ensure that bed capacity in the Welsh NHS is maximised, in particular during winter months.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was not agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5875 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the negative impact that delayed transfers of care can have on the Welsh NHS and an individual's quality of life; and

2. Recognises the importance of ensuring that people in Wales have the necessary support to enable them to remain in their own home for as long as possible.

The motion as amended was agreed.

NDM5871 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Remembers and honours those who have sacrificed themselves to secure and protect our freedom;

2. Pays tribute to those who have served in the Armed Forces and notes the moral obligation owed to them by people across Wales;

3. Believes that the establishment of an Armed Forces Commissioner for Wales would provide improved services and outcomes for the Armed Forces community;

4. Calls on the Welsh Government to:

a) establish a veterans' card, offering a series of benefits for service personnel and veterans in recognition of their service;

b) implement a veterans needs assessment as a basis for service delivery; and

c) protect veterans injured before April 2005 by ensuring that their War Disablement Pension is not taken from them when they access social care.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

Delete all after point 2 and replace with:

3. Welcomes the fact that all local authorities in Wales have appointed Armed Forces Community Covenant Champions;

4. Welcomes the success of the Defence Privilege Card in Wales;

5. Welcomes the Welsh Government's commitment to the package of support for the Armed Forces.

[If amendment 1 is agreed, amendments 2 and 3 will be de-selected]

Amendment 2 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

In point 4, delete sub-point a) and replace with:

provide an update on a pilot scheme for a veterans' card to offer benefits for service personnel and veterans in recognition of their service.

Amendment 3 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

In point 4, add as new sub-point:

work with the UK Government to ensure that veterans receive proper compensation for mesothelioma due to service.

Amendment 4 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Welcomes schemes such as Change Step, which offer peer mentoring and advice for veterans and their families, and calls on the Welsh Government to ensure that there is sufficient funding for mental health services for veterans to sustain these vital services.

The item started at 17.05

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5871 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Remembers and honours those who have sacrificed themselves to secure and protect our freedom;

2. Pays tribute to those who have served in the Armed Forces and notes the moral obligation owed to them by people across Wales;

3. Believes that the establishment of an Armed Forces Commissioner for Wales would provide improved services and outcomes for the Armed Forces community;

4. Calls on the Welsh Government to:

a) establish a veterans' card, offering a series of benefits for service personnel and veterans in recognition of their service;

b) implement a veterans needs assessment as a basis for service delivery; and

c) protect veterans injured before April 2005 by ensuring that their War Disablement Pension is not taken from them when they access social care.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 – Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

Delete all after point 2 and replace with:

3. Welcomes the fact that all local authorities in Wales have appointed Armed Forces Community Covenant Champions;

4. Welcomes the success of the Defence Privilege Card in Wales;

5. Welcomes the Welsh Government's commitment to the package of support for the Armed Forces.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was agreed.

Amendment 1 was agreed, therefore amendments 2 and 3 were de-selected

Amendment 4 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Welcomes schemes such as Change Step, which offer peer mentoring and advice for veterans and their families, and calls on the Welsh Government to ensure that there is sufficient funding for mental health services for veterans to sustain these vital services.

A vote was taken on Amendment 4:

Amendment 4 was agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5871 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Remembers and honours those who have sacrificed themselves to secure and protect our freedom;

2. Pays tribute to those who have served in the Armed Forces and notes the moral obligation owed to them by people across Wales;

3. Welcomes the fact that all local authorities in Wales have appointed Armed Forces Community Covenant Champions;

4. Welcomes the success of the Defence Privilege Card in Wales;

5. Welcomes the Welsh Government's commitment to the package of support for the Armed Forces.

6. Welcomes schemes such as Change Step, which offer peer mentoring and advice for veterans and their families, and calls on the Welsh Government to ensure that there is sufficient funding for mental health services for veterans to sustain these vital services.

The motion as amended was agreed.

NDM5869 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Values the significant contribution which older people make to social and economic life in Wales;

2. Rejects all forms of ageism towards older people in Wales;

3. Regrets that older people who wish to return to the workforce in Wales are not able to access the same level of support as younger people;

4. Regrets that a lack of access to public transport can inhibit the ability of older people to access social and economic opportunities; and

5. Calls on the Welsh Government to review the support available for older people to maximise opportunities for them to contribute to social and economic life in Wales.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Regrets that the number of people aged 50 and over who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) is estimated to be three times as many as those under 25 and calls on the Welsh Government to design and implement a specific programme to improve the skills and employability prospects of people over 50 who are NEET.

Amendment 2 – Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

Delete point 3 and replace with:

Recognises that younger workers and older workers who wish to return to the workforce have different employment support needs and that employment programmes should be designed accordingly.

Amendment 3 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point 5 and re-number accordingly:

Regrets that cuts to local authority budgets may reduce the level of services available to help older people live independently.

The item started at 16.08

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5869 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Values the significant contribution which older people make to social and economic life in Wales;

2. Rejects all forms of ageism towards older people in Wales;

3. Regrets that older people who wish to return to the workforce in Wales are not able to access the same level of support as younger people;

4. Regrets that a lack of access to public transport can inhibit the ability of older people to access social and economic opportunities; and

5. Calls on the Welsh Government to review the support available for older people to maximise opportunities for them to contribute to social and economic life in Wales.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Regrets that the number of people aged 50 and over who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) is estimated to be three times as many as those under 25 and calls on the Welsh Government to design and implement a specific programme to improve the skills and employability prospects of people over 50 who are NEET.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was not agreed.

Amendment 2 – Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

Delete point 3 and replace with:

Recognises that younger workers and older workers who wish to return to the workforce have different employment support needs and that employment programmes should be designed accordingly.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was agreed.

Amendment 3 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point 5 and re-number accordingly:

Regrets that cuts to local authority budgets may reduce the level of services available to help older people live independently.

A vote was taken on Amendment 3:

Amendment 3 was agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5869 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Values the significant contribution which older people make to social and economic life in Wales;

2. Rejects all forms of ageism towards older people in Wales;

3. Recognises that younger workers and older workers who wish to return to the workforce have different employment support needs and that employment programmes should be designed accordingly.

4. Regrets that a lack of access to public transport can inhibit the ability of older people to access social and economic opportunities; and

5. Regrets that cuts to local authority budgets may reduce the level of services available to help older people live independently.

6. Calls on the Welsh Government to review the support available for older people to maximise opportunities for them to contribute to social and economic life in Wales.

The motion as amended was agreed.

NDM5862 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the value of diverse apprenticeship opportunities to Wales;

2. Believes that the Welsh Government should ensure that work placement scheme opportunities are available to people across society in Wales to aid retraining and to allow for sustainable, progressive employment; and

3. Acknowledges the importance of collaboration between all sectors of the education system and businesses in Wales to help prepare young people for the world of work.

The following amendment has been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to examine a qualifications framework for 14-18 year olds which would provide greater choice for academic and vocational pathways and movement between them, to support individuals in realising their full potential.

The item started at 15.05

Voting on the motion and amendment under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5862 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the value of diverse apprenticeship opportunities to Wales;

2. Believes that the Welsh Government should ensure that work placement scheme opportunities are available to people across society in Wales to aid retraining and to allow for sustainable, progressive employment; and

3. Acknowledges the importance of collaboration between all sectors of the education system and businesses in Wales to help prepare young people for the world of work.

The motion without amendment was agreed.

NDM5854 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the vital role international connectivity plays in underpinning economic growth through inward investment, trade and tourism;

2. Believes the Welsh Government should adopt a clear plan to enhance international connectivity in Wales;

3. Notes the opportunities to boost international connectivity in Wales by:

a) returning Cardiff Airport to private ownership; and

b) dividing proceeds from its sale between both infrastructure investment and returning original investment to Wales's taxpayers.

4. Recognises the opportunities to boost international connectivity in Wales by supporting the important role Wales's ports play in delivering growth and creating jobs;

5. Believes that to improve international connectivity in Wales, the Welsh Government must bring forward clear plans to improve the A40 to Fishguard and A55 to Holyhead; and

6. Further recognises the role the Heart of Wales Line can play as a transport corridor for Mid Wales, and its potential role in driving the connectivity of Wales.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Delete point 3 and replace with:

Notes the Welsh Government's stated intention of identifying a private sector operator for Cardiff Airport at the time of purchase and calls for a written update on progress in this regard.

[If amendment 1 is agreed, amendment 2 will be de-selected]

Amendment 2 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete point 3 and replace with:

Notes the opportunities to boost international connectivity in Wales by:

a) supporting the growth of Cardiff Airport as an entry point to Wales

b) supporting connectivity between Wales and key hub airports such as London Heathrow and Manchester.

Amendment 3 – Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan) - Withdrawn

Delete point 3 and renumber accordingly.

Amendment 4 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete point 6 and replace with:

Further recognises the role of Welsh rail lines in securing internal and external connectivity, and supports;

a) developing the Heart of Wales Line.

b) electrification of the North Wales Coast Line.

c) electrification of the Great Western Main Line and Valley Lines.

d) electrification of the Welsh Marches Line.

Amendment 5 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Notes significant gaps in rail electrification projects in the Welsh Government's National Transport Finance Plan and calls on the Welsh Government to include electrification of the Ebbw Vale, Barry Island, Vale of Glamorgan, Penarth and Maesteg lines.

The National Transport Finance Plan

Amendment 6 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to provide funding for a feasibility study into re-instating rail links between Aberystwyth and Carmarthen to link up with the existing network.

The item started at 14.25

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5854 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the vital role international connectivity plays in underpinning economic growth through inward investment, trade and tourism;

2. Believes the Welsh Government should adopt a clear plan to enhance international connectivity in Wales;

3. Notes the opportunities to boost international connectivity in Wales by:

a) returning Cardiff Airport to private ownership; and

b) dividing proceeds from its sale between both infrastructure investment and returning original investment to Wales's taxpayers.

4. Recognises the opportunities to boost international connectivity in Wales by supporting the important role Wales's ports play in delivering growth and creating jobs;

5. Believes that to improve international connectivity in Wales, the Welsh Government must bring forward clear plans to improve the A40 to Fishguard and A55 to Holyhead; and

6. Further recognises the role the Heart of Wales Line can play as a transport corridor for Mid Wales, and its potential role in driving the connectivity of Wales.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Delete point 3 and replace with:

Notes the Welsh Government's stated intention of identifying a private sector operator for Cardiff Airport at the time of purchase and calls for a written update on progress in this regard.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was not agreed.

Amendment 2 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete point 3 and replace with:

Notes the opportunities to boost international connectivity in Wales by:

a) supporting the growth of Cardiff Airport as an entry point to Wales

b) supporting connectivity between Wales and key hub airports such as London Heathrow and Manchester.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was agreed.

Amendment 3 was withdrawn

Amendment 4 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete point 6 and replace with:

Further recognises the role of Welsh rail lines in securing internal and external connectivity, and supports;

a) developing the Heart of Wales Line.

b) electrification of the North Wales Coast Line.

c) electrification of the Great Western Main Line and Valley Lines.

d) electrification of the Welsh Marches Line.

A vote was taken on Amendment 4:

Amendment 4 was agreed.

Amendment 5 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Notes significant gaps in rail electrification projects in the Welsh Government's National Transport Finance Plan and calls on the Welsh Government to include electrification of the Ebbw Vale, Barry Island, Vale of Glamorgan, Penarth and Maesteg lines.

A vote was taken on Amendment 5:

Amendment 5 was not agreed.

Amendment 6 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to provide funding for a feasibility study into re-instating rail links between Aberystwyth and Carmarthen to link up with the existing network.

A vote was taken on Amendment 6:

Amendment 6 was agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5854 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the vital role international connectivity plays in underpinning economic growth through inward investment, trade and tourism;

2. Believes the Welsh Government should adopt a clear plan to enhance international connectivity in Wales;

3. Notes the opportunities to boost international connectivity in Wales by:

a) supporting the growth of Cardiff Airport as an entry point to Wales

b) supporting connectivity between Wales and key hub airports such as London Heathrow and Manchester.

4. Recognises the opportunities to boost international connectivity in Wales by supporting the important role Wales's ports play in delivering growth and creating jobs;

5. Believes that to improve international connectivity in Wales, the Welsh Government must bring forward clear plans to improve the A40 to Fishguard and A55 to Holyhead; and

6. Further recognises the role of Welsh rail lines in securing internal and external connectivity, and supports;

a) developing the Heart of Wales Line.

b) electrification of the North Wales Coast Line.

c) electrification of the Great Western Main Line and Valley Lines.

d) electrification of the Welsh Marches Line.

7. Calls on the Welsh Government to provide funding for a feasibility study into re-instating rail links between Aberystwyth and Carmarthen to link up with the existing network.

The motion as amended was agreed.

NDM5843 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

Regrets the failure of the Welsh Government to provide adequate support to meet the specific needs of Wales's rural communities.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the recent round of bank closures across rural Wales.

Amendment 2 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to hold an urgent round table meeting with major retail banks to encourage support for a community banking model and ensure a sustainable local banking presence in rural communities

Amendment 3 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Urges the Welsh Government to make a significant part payment to as many farmers as possible at the earliest opportunity within the Basic Payment Scheme payment window.

Amendment 4 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls for a scheme under the Rural Development Programme which offers more accessible, small scale funding to improve the resilience and efficiency of Welsh farms.

Amendment 5 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls for the early scrapping of the six day standstill rule.

The item started at 16.43

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5843 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

Regrets the failure of the Welsh Government to provide adequate support to meet the specific needs of Wales's rural communities.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Regrets the recent round of bank closures across rural Wales.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was agreed.

Amendment 2 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to hold an urgent round table meeting with major retail banks to encourage support for a community banking model and ensure a sustainable local banking presence in rural communities.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was not agreed.

Amendment 3 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Urges the Welsh Government to make a significant part payment to as many farmers as possible at the earliest opportunity within the Basic Payment Scheme payment window.

A vote was taken on Amendment 3:

Amendment 3 was agreed.

Amendment 4 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls for a scheme under the Rural Development Programme which offers more accessible, small scale funding to improve the resilience and efficiency of Welsh farms.

A vote was taken on Amendment 4:

Amendment 4 was not agreed.

Amendment 5 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls for the early scrapping of the six day standstill rule.

A vote was taken on Amendment 5:

Amendment 5 was not agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5843 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets the failure of the Welsh Government to provide adequate support to meet the specific needs of Wales's rural communities.

2. Regrets the recent round of bank closures across rural Wales.

3. Urges the Welsh Government to make a significant part payment to as many farmers as possible at the earliest opportunity within the Basic Payment Scheme payment window.

The motion as amended was not agreed.

NDM5831 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the important role that local authority services play in an individuals' experiences of public services.

2. Regrets the Welsh Government's persistent refusal to provide support to local authorities in preventing rises in council tax bills;

3. Notes that the average band D council tax for Wales for 2015-16 is £1,328; and that households are £546 worse off over the course of the Fourth Assembly due to the Welsh Government's refusal to implement a council tax freeze;

4. Believes that people in Wales will question the value for money provided by many local authority services further to these council tax rises; and

5. Further believes that more work needs to be done in Wales to utilise the role third sector organisations can play in effective local service delivery.

The following amendment has been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete all after point 1 and replace with:

Regrets the implications for the future of local authority services if the UK Government continues to pursue austerity policies.

Believes that local authorities and communities should have the freedom to make their own decisions to raise finance, in order to protect local services and jobs.

The item started at 15.12

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5831 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the important role that local authority services play in an individuals' experiences of public services.

2. Regrets the Welsh Government's persistent refusal to provide support to local authorities in preventing rises in council tax bills;

3. Notes that the average band D council tax for Wales for 2015-16 is £1,328; and that households are £546 worse off over the course of the Fourth Assembly due to the Welsh Government's refusal to implement a council tax freeze;

4. Believes that people in Wales will question the value for money provided by many local authority services further to these council tax rises; and

5. Further believes that more work needs to be done in Wales to utilise the role third sector organisations can play in effective local service delivery.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete all after point 1 and replace with:

Regrets the implications for the future of local authority services if the UK Government continues to pursue austerity policies.

Believes that local authorities and communities should have the freedom to make their own decisions to raise finance, in order to protect local services and jobs.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5831 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes the important role that local authority services play in an individuals' experiences of public services.

2. Regrets the implications for the future of local authority services if the UK Government continues to pursue austerity policies.

3. Believes that local authorities and communities should have the freedom to make their own decisions to raise finance, in order to protect local services and jobs.

The motion as amended was agreed.

NDM5830 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes that Welsh NHS referral-to-treatment time targets have not been met since 2010;

2. Regrets the potential adverse impact of prolonged NHS waiting times on patient outcomes and quality of life; and

3. Calls upon the Welsh Government to set out a plan and timetable for achieving its referral-to-treatment time targets.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Recognises the importance of achieving faster diagnosis in reducing waiting times.

Amendment 2 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert at end of point 3:

'and to ensure that patients are seen in a timely manner throughout their care.'

The item started at 17.05

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5830 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes that Welsh NHS referral-to-treatment time targets have not been met since 2010;

2. Regrets the potential adverse impact of prolonged NHS waiting times on patient outcomes and quality of life; and

3. Calls upon the Welsh Government to set out a plan and timetable for achieving its referral-to-treatment time targets.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Recognises the importance of achieving faster diagnosis in reducing waiting times.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was agreed.

Amendment 2 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert at end of point 3:

'and to ensure that patients are seen in a timely manner throughout their care.'

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5830 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes that Welsh NHS referral-to-treatment time targets have not been met since 2010;

2. Regrets the potential adverse impact of prolonged NHS waiting times on patient outcomes and quality of life; and

3. Recognises the importance of achieving faster diagnosis in reducing waiting times.

4. Calls upon the Welsh Government to set out a plan and timetable for achieving its referral-to-treatment time targets and to ensure that patients are seen in a timely manner throughout their care.

The motion as amended was agreed.

NDM5825 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets that recent Local Data Company statistics put Wales's town vacancy rate at 15.6 per cent, by far the highest in the UK;

2. Regrets the Welsh Government's persistent failure to promote high streets and town centres, help small businesses and ensure job creation; and

3. Calls on the Welsh Government to seriously consider the proposals outlined in the Welsh Conservative documents 'A Vision for the Welsh High Street' and 'Invest Wales' which would help SMEs and regenerate our high streets. 

'A Vision for the Welsh High Street'

'Invest Wales'.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Calls on the Welsh Government to help boost footfall in high streets by ensuring public and active transport links are properly accessible; applying business rates to out of town retail unit car parks; and encouraging local authorities to trial limited free parking to support struggling high streets.

Amendment 2 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to encourage local authorities to work on diversifying their high streets in order to increase footfall.

Amendment 3 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to consider a wide range of measures to help small businesses, including those on the high street, to include easing access to finance and extending business rate relief.

The item started at 14.24

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5825 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets that recent Local Data Company statistics put Wales's town vacancy rate at 15.6 per cent, by far the highest in the UK;

2. Regrets the Welsh Government's persistent failure to promote high streets and town centres, help small businesses and ensure job creation; and

3. Calls on the Welsh Government to seriously consider the proposals outlined in the Welsh Conservative documents 'A Vision for the Welsh High Street' and 'Invest Wales' which would help SMEs and regenerate our high streets.

The motion without amendment was agreed/not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert as new point 3 and renumber accordingly:

Calls on the Welsh Government to help boost footfall in high streets by ensuring public and active transport links are properly accessible; applying business rates to out of town retail unit car parks; and encouraging local authorities to trial limited free parking to support struggling high streets.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was not agreed.

Amendment 2 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to encourage local authorities to work on diversifying their high streets in order to increase footfall.

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was agreed.

Amendment 3 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls on the Welsh Government to consider a wide range of measures to help small businesses, including those on the high street, to include easing access to finance and extending business rate relief.

A vote was taken on Amendment 3:

Amendment 3 was agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5825 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets that recent Local Data Company statistics put Wales's town vacancy rate at 15.6 per cent, by far the highest in the UK;

2. Regrets the Welsh Government's persistent failure to promote high streets and town centres, help small businesses and ensure job creation; and

3. Calls on the Welsh Government to seriously consider the proposals outlined in the Welsh Conservative documents 'A Vision for the Welsh High Street' and 'Invest Wales' which would help SMEs and regenerate our high streets.

4. Calls on the Welsh Government to encourage local authorities to work on diversifying their high streets in order to increase footfall.

5. Calls on the Welsh Government to consider a wide range of measures to help small businesses, including those on the high street, to include easing access to finance and extending business rate relief.

The motion as amended was not agreed.

NDM5821 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets the repeated and persistent failure of the Welsh Government to meet its own key targets linked to the delivery of key public services; and the damaging consequences this has for the people of Wales.

2. Believes that the Welsh Government must show absolute transparency in measuring public service performance.

3. Fears that the removal, redefinition or altering of targets linked to public service delivery prevents the people of Wales from adequately holding the Welsh Government to account, and distorts the scrutiny of its long-term, repeated failure.

The following amendment has been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Insert at end of point 2:

'including ensuring that data is collected and published in a way that ensures performance can be compared with other nations'

The item started at 16.05

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5821 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets the repeated and persistent failure of the Welsh Government to meet its own key targets linked to the delivery of key public services; and the damaging consequences this has for the people of Wales.

2. Believes that the Welsh Government must show absolute transparency in measuring public service performance.

3. Fears that the removal, redefinition or altering of targets linked to public service delivery prevents the people of Wales from adequately holding the Welsh Government to account, and distorts the scrutiny of its long-term, repeated failure.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Insert at end of point 2:

'including ensuring that data is collected and published in a way that ensures performance can be compared with other nations'

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was agreed.

A vote was taken on the motion as amended:

NDM5821 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets the repeated and persistent failure of the Welsh Government to meet its own key targets linked to the delivery of key public services; and the damaging consequences this has for the people of Wales.

2. Believes that the Welsh Government must show absolute transparency in measuring public service performance including ensuring that data is collected and published in a way that ensures performance can be compared with other nations.

3. Fears that the removal, redefinition or altering of targets linked to public service delivery prevents the people of Wales from adequately holding the Welsh Government to account, and distorts the scrutiny of its long-term, repeated failure.

As required by Standing Order 6.20 the Deputy Presiding Officer exercised his casting vote by voting against the motion as amended. Therefore, the motion as amended was not agreed.

NDM5820 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets the Welsh Government's persistent failure to provide sufficient support to Wales's businesses.

2. Expresses deep concern by the loss of jobs at businesses in receipt of Welsh Government grant funding.

3. Believes that the process of due diligence utilised by the Welsh Government prior to providing grant support for businesses has proved inadequate.

4. Regrets the Welsh Government's failure to spend public money effectively in support of Welsh businesses.

5. Calls on the Welsh Government to undertake a comprehensive review of its failures in business support, including a re-prioritisation to provide more backing for small and medium-sized enterprises.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete all after point 1 and replace with:

2. Calls on the Welsh Government to support the financing needs of Welsh businesses through establishing a business development bank for Wales.

3. Calls on the Welsh Government to address the burden of business rates by extending the small business rate relief scheme.

4. Calls on the Welsh Government to secure new trade opportunities for Welsh businesses by implementing Plaid Cymru's Overseas Trade Initiative.

[If amendment 1 is agreed, amendment 2 will be de-selected]

Amendment 2 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert at end of point 5:

', improved access to finance and enable high quality business support and advice'

The item started at 15.05

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5820 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Regrets the Welsh Government's persistent failure to provide sufficient support to Wales's businesses.

2. Expresses deep concern by the loss of jobs at businesses in receipt of Welsh Government grant funding.

3. Believes that the process of due diligence utilised by the Welsh Government prior to providing grant support for businesses has proved inadequate.

4. Regrets the Welsh Government's failure to spend public money effectively in support of Welsh businesses.

5. Calls on the Welsh Government to undertake a comprehensive review of its failures in business support, including a re-prioritisation to provide more backing for small and medium-sized enterprises.

The motion without amendment was not agreed.

The following amendments were tabled:

Amendment 1 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Delete all after point 1 and replace with:

2. Calls on the Welsh Government to support the financing needs of Welsh businesses through establishing a business development bank for Wales.

3. Calls on the Welsh Government to address the burden of business rates by extending the small business rate relief scheme.

4. Calls on the Welsh Government to secure new trade opportunities for Welsh businesses by implementing Plaid Cymru's Overseas Trade Initiative.

A vote was taken on Amendment 1:

Amendment 1 was not agreed.

Amendment 2 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Insert at end of point 5:

', improved access to finance and enable high quality business support and advice'

A vote was taken on Amendment 2:

Amendment 2 was not agreed.

As the Assembly did not agree the motion without amendment, and did not agree the amendments tabled to the motion, the motion was therefore not agreed.

NDM5812 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes Welsh Conservative proposals to boost support for first-time buyers; and

2. Recognises the need to help first-time buyers onto the property ladder by working with the whole market to develop a range of initiatives.

The following amendments have been tabled:

Amendment 1 – Jane Hutt (Vale of Glamorgan)

Delete point 1 and replace with:

Notes the difficulties facing first time buyers in current economic circumstances.

Amendment 2 – Aled Roberts (North Wales)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Calls for an innovative new rent-to-own model of housing to enable tenants to build up a stake in the ownership of their home through their rent.

Amendment 3 – Elin Jones (Ceredigion)

Add as new point at end of motion:

Recognises the role of social housing in providing low cost affordable housing, and that it is inappropriate to enact home-buying policies that would deplete the social housing stock.

The item started at 15.40

Voting on the motion and amendments under this item was deferred until Voting Time.

A vote was taken on the motion without amendment:

NDM5812 Paul Davies (Preseli Pembrokeshire)

To propose that the National Assembly for Wales:

1. Notes Welsh Conservative proposals to boost support for first-time buyers; and

2. Recognises the need to help first-time buyers onto the property ladder by working with the whole market to develop a range of initiatives.