The Plenary of Rugby Council discussed a range of topics, including questions to various Cabinet Secretaries, a motion to amend Standing Orders, a legislative proposal for a community energy benefits bill, and a debate on funding for cultural institutions. Key decisions included the approval of a motion to amend Standing Orders and the agreement on a community energy benefits bill.

Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport

The session began with questions directed to the Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport. Questions 2–10 were asked, while Question 1 was withdrawn. Party spokespeople were invited to ask additional questions after Question 3.

Questions to the Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice

Following this, questions were posed to the Cabinet Secretary for Culture and Social Justice. Questions 1–7 and 9 were addressed, with Question 8 being withdrawn. Party spokespeople were invited to ask further questions after Question 2.

Questions to the Senedd Commission

A single question was asked to the Senedd Commission.

90 Second Statements

Vikki Howells made a statement on the unveiling of a permanent memorial to the Albion Colliery Disaster after 130 years. Rhys ab Owen highlighted Caban's achievement in winning Bookshop of the Year at the Welsh Independent Retail Awards 2024.

Motion to Amend Standing Orders - Llywydd’s Committee Chairing Arrangements

A motion was proposed by Elin Jones to amend Standing Order 18B, as detailed in the Business Committee’s report. The motion was agreed upon in accordance with Standing Order 12.36.

Debate on a Member's Legislative Proposal - A Community Energy Benefits Bill

Adam Price proposed a community energy benefits bill aimed at ensuring renewable energy developments benefit local communities. The bill includes provisions for keeping profits local, mandating local ownership, and prioritising brownfield sites over greenfield ones. The motion was supported by Rhun ap Iorwerth and agreed upon with 23 votes for, 25 abstentions, and 0 against.

Debate on Petition P-06-1437 - Increase, Don’t Cut, Funding for the National Library, Amgueddfa Cymru and the Royal Commission

Rhianon Passmore presented a petition with 12,075 signatures calling for increased funding for the National Library, Amgueddfa Cymru, and the Royal Commission. The motion was agreed upon in accordance with Standing Order 12.36.

Plaid Cymru Debate - Wales and the Next UK Government

Heledd Fychan led a debate on Wales's relationship with the next UK government. The original motion, which called for the abolition of the Secretary of State for Wales, was not agreed upon. However, an amended motion was passed, highlighting the success of devolution and calling for a constructive relationship between the Welsh and UK Governments. The amended motion was agreed upon with 27 votes for, 0 abstentions, and 22 against.

Short Debate

Heledd Fychan also led a short debate on protecting communities from the impact of quarrying for minerals, specifically advocating for the closure of Craig yr Hesg Quarry.

For more details, you can refer to the Printable minutes and the Votes Summary.