Biodiversity Rivers and Streams 2024-05-08
2024-05-08
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the biodiversity of Welsh rivers and streams, questioning the role of the UK Government in discussions with the Welsh Government.
What discussions has he had with the Welsh Government on the biodiversity of Welsh rivers and streams?
Water is a devolved matter in Wales, making rivers and streams under the responsibility of the Welsh Government. The UK Government recognise the importance of rivers in our natural environment and are working on the UK national biodiversity strategy and action plan.
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Assessment & feedback
Details about specific discussions with the Welsh Government were not provided.
Water Is A Devolved Matter
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP criticises the UK Government for denigrating the Welsh Government's efforts on biodiversity, highlighting that Wales performs better than England. He asks if Welsh ideas should be adopted.
Will the Minister acknowledge that the real scandal is the UK Government denigrating a good Welsh Government which excels in biodiversity? Given their threefold advantage over England, shouldn't we adopt Welsh approaches?
The Minister disagrees with the assertion, highlighting that the UK Government mandated water companies to invest £56 million in storm overflow networks for improved water quality. In contrast, Wales sees an average of 38 sewage spills per outflow compared to England's 23.
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Assessment & feedback
The question about denigrating the Welsh Government was not directly addressed.
I Simply Cannot Disagree With The Hon. Gentleman More
Highlighting Uk Government Efforts
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP expresses concern over air and water pollution affecting Pembrokeshire residents from the Withyhedge landfill. He questions the impartiality of the Welsh Government's oversight due to a conflict of interest.
Given that Ministers voted against an independent investigation into financial dealings linked to the owner of Withyhedge landfill, how can constituents have confidence in the regulatory response?
The Minister commended the MP for highlighting his constituents' plight but criticised the lack of independent scrutiny, stating that the donation linked to the issue is 'shameful'. She argued that there can be no confidence in an impartial investigation given the current stance.
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Assessment & feedback
The question about regulatory response was not directly addressed; instead, Labour Members were criticised for opposing scrutiny.
There Is No Independent Scrutiny Here
Labour Members Should Explain Why They Are Scared Of Scrutiny
Response accuracy