Welsh Government sets out plans for new laws

THE WELSH Government set out plans to introduce laws on homelessness, building safety, environmental governance, grey-hound racing and visitor accommodation.

- CHRIS HAINES

Julie James, counsel general, the Welsh Government's chief legal adviser, updated the Senedd on ministers' plans for new laws with only a year to go until the next election.

Ms James told the Senedd a bill would be introduced to make homelessness support more accessible and person-centred, helping people find long-term housing quickly.

She said the Welsh Government would bring forward a long-awaited environmental governance bill, establishing a new governance body and setting biodiversity targets.

Giving a statement on the legislative programme on April 29, Ms James said a law would also be drafted centred on the accountability of Senedd Members.

The bill would introduce a system of recall, giving voters the opportunity to remove misbehaving politicians between elections, and seek to address deliberate deception.

With plans to bring in a tourism tax already afoot, the Welsh Government will also introduce a new licensing system for accommodation providers to set safety standards.