NEW LAWS: First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth set out some of the Welsh government’s new legislative programme today, including a Bill to strengthen the rights of people living in private rented accommodation by making rents fairer and limiting no-fault evictions.

The FM also announced a community right to buy scheme and legislation that ensures the needs of people in rural areas are considered in policy-making, known as “rural proofing.”

MORE HOUSES: Housing Minister Sian Gwenllian committed today to deliver 20,000 additional social homes by 2030. She said: “I will work relentlessly with local authorities, registered social landlords, community groups and other homebuilders to deliver this target.”

The house-building scheme is limited to homes for social rent and rent where affordability is secured in perpetuity. The minister also set out a delivery period for the house-building scheme running until March 2030.

FIRE INTERVENTION: The Welsh government continued the intervention in South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) today started by the previous Labour government.

A report into the culture at SWFRS exposed widespread bullying, harassment and discrimination, favouritism in promotion arrangements, and management which was unable or unwilling to confront these problems.

The four government-appointed commissioners running the service will remain in place until after next year’s local elections.

STRIKE CONTINUES: Striking health visitors from Cwm Taf health board continued their demonstrations outside the Senedd today, handing a petition to Health Minister Mabon ap Gwynfor demanding that he fulfil election promises to resolve the dispute.

The Unite Wales health visitors have been on strike for 21 weeks over fair pay after a job evaluation placed them on a higher grade. A ballot announced on Monday will see them continue strike action for a further 12 months.