FOOD REFORM: Sweeping reforms of the body responsible for promoting Welsh meat are urgently needed, the Senedd economy committee said today.

The scrutiny committee has called for action from the Welsh government following internal problems at Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), the supply chain support system for livestock farming in Wales. 

The Welsh government said it will respond to the committee’s recommendations in due course.

FIRE SERVICE: The Welsh government is conducting a public consultation on the fire service in Wales, following a series of reports that revealed misconduct, a dysfunctional workplace culture, and serious and systemic failings in management at all levels.

Inspections and independent reviews of culture in all three fire and rescue services in Wales identified serious concerns about the leadership and operational delivery of the services. 

The consultation will close on October 24.

UNFAIR DISMISSAL: School leaders’ union NAHT Cymru threatened legal action against Conwy County Borough Council yesterday after it refused to reinstate a head teacher who won an appeal against dismissal.

NAHT Cymru says an appeals panel upheld its member’s case after the council issued a notice of compulsory redundancy amid amalgamations of schools. 

The appeals panel determined that the dismissal was not justified. The council said it would not comment on an individual’s case.

CHILDCARE FAILURE: The Welsh Liberal Democrats criticised the childcare offer in Wales yesterday.

The party claims the offer in Wales is less generous than England, providing just 12.5 hours a week for two to three-year-olds, 30 hours for three to four-year-olds, and nothing at all for children under two.

A Welsh government spokesperson said: “We are committed to investing in our nation’s future and our Childcare offer and Flying Start programme make a substantial difference for children and families across Wales.”