Shadow Minister for Social Partnership and Social Justice, Joel James MS, has today questioned the Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS on the Children's Commissioner For Wales Annual Report.
During his contribution, Joel highlighted his concerns regarding the increased use of e-cigarettes or vapes amongst children and young people with the secondary schools survey highlighted in the report finding that 24% of children and young people have tried vaping and 7% were found to be regular users.
The Member also highlighted that shockingly, last year, a Welsh drugs testing service found that two in every five sample vape liquids tested contained one or more synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists, which is commonly known as 'spice', which is associated with serious health issues, ranging from breathing difficulties to psychotic episodes.
The Member therefore echoed the call by the Children's Commissioner to take stronger action in banning the supply of disposable or single-use vaping devices, making more nicotine-replacement therapies available, and making sure vapes are not visible at the point of sale.
Joel also questioned the Cabinet Secretary on food in schools, with the commissioner reporting that only 19% of children felt full after their meal and almost half said that they can't have more food—seconds—if they ask for it.
The Member stated that this issue has been raised with him consistently by his own constituents, "who have pointed out that the portion sizes for school meals is the same regardless of your age, height or weight, so a child in year 5 or 6 would get the same sized meal as a child in year 1 or 2."
Finally, closing his contribution, Joel raised the issue of mental health and well-being, and the fact that it is one of the biggest issues raised by children and young people themselves, with almost 45% of them saying that more mental health support needs to be provided. The Children's Commissioner for Wales has called for the Welsh Government's child poverty strategy to have clear targets and measurable outcomes, and this is something that both Joel and the Welsh Conservatives absolutely support.
To watch Joel's full contribution, please click here.
