Parties say deal is not coalition but ‘bespoke agreement’ to create a stable Senedd capable of delivering ‘radical change and reform’
Radical plans ranging from strict restrictions on second home ownership to setting up a publicly owned energy company and driving forward a free nationwide social care system have been announced in an agreement between the Labour-led Welsh government and the nationalists, Plaid Cymru.
Details of the “cooperation agreement” were unveiled by the Welsh first minister, Mark Drakeford, and the leader of Plaid, Adam Price, on the steps of the Welsh parliament building, the Senedd, on Monday.
“Immediate and radical action” to address the crisis of second homes and unaffordable housing, using the planning, property and taxation systems. Actions being planned include a cap on the number of second and holiday homes.
A publicly owned energy company for Wales could be created to encourage community-owned renewable energy generation.
Appoint a commission of independent advice to examine potential pathways to net zero by 2035 – the current target date is 2050.
Set up an expert group to support the creation of a “national care service”, free at the point of need. Implementation plan to be agreed by by the end of 2023.
Extend free school meals to all primary school pupils, over the lifetime of the agreement.
Establish a national construction company to support councils and social landlords to improve the supply of social and affordable housing.
Support plans to reform the Senedd, increasing its membership to between 80 and 100 members and having gender quotas enshrined in law.
Improve the teaching of Welsh history and make its delivery mandatory in the new curriculum for Wales.
Set new ambitions and incentives to expand the proportion of the education workforce who can teach and work through the Welsh language.