, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary
for Climate Change and Rural Affairs: Today I welcome the
publication of the Independent Water Commission's report to the
UK and Welsh Governments on the future of the water. I extend my
sincere thanks to Sir and the Commission for its extensive engagement and
the collaborative approach it has taken throughout the last nine
months. Sir Jon has led the Commission and demonstrated how our
two governments can work together to meet the needs of the
public, consumers, investors and the natural world.
I recognise the depth of engagement and the careful consideration
given to the unique context of Wales, particularly the cultural
significance of water, our distinct environmental landscape, the
distinct legislative framework in Wales, including the Well-being
of Future Generations Act. The report reflects a clear
understanding of the values and priorities that matter to the
people of Wales and reflecting the views of the sector in Wales.
I welcome the consideration the Commission has given to economic
regulation and how to make it work better for customers,
investors and the environment. It is particularly welcome that
the Commission has identified distinctive ways forward for Wales
and for England, recognising the different opportunities and
challenges in each country.
Working closely with the UK Government, I intend to progress the
Commission's recommendation for a separate, independent economic
regulator for Wales. I will want to engage widely on this
proposition and draw in expertise to build arrangements which
provide a clear, certain regulatory environment which provides
value to the public, confidence for investors and sees our
environment thrive. I look forward to progressing this alongside
the UK Government progressing the recommendation for England to
establish a new, integrated regulator.
This is a once in a generation opportunity to reset arrangements
created before devolution and is about more that institutional
change. There is a golden thread about clarity and direction
through the recommendations. With a new National Water Strategy
for Wales providing a clear articulation of the policy
priorities, more effective planning at system level, stronger
environmental regulation and a greater focus on delivering
balanced solutions at catchment level.
The Welsh Government will now take time to review the
Commission's findings in full, working with the UK Government to
get the cross-border cooperation we need to truly reform our
water industry for this and future generations. We are committed
to giving each recommendation the careful consideration it
deserves, ensuring that any future actions align with our
principles of sustainable management of natural resources, where
water is one of our most precious assets.
The UK Government have today indicated they will publish a White
Paper in the autumn. The Welsh Government is looking forward to
working collaboratively and constructively with the UK Government
as the White Paper progresses, building on the spirit of
cooperation that has characterised this process so far.
Once again, we thank the Commission for its work and for the
detailed and constructive forward-looking dialogue about the
future of water in Wales.
This statement is being issued during recess to keep Members
informed. Should Members wish me to make a further statement or
to answer questions on this when the Senedd returns I would be
happy to do so.
