Alun Davies, Minister for Lifelong Learning and Welsh Language
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
Today, I am publishing the White Paper ‘Striking the right balance: proposals for a Welsh Language Bill’. The proposals are designed to ensure strong leadership for the language; create robust arrangements for promoting and facilitating the use of the Welsh language and improve the current Standards regime.
The White Paper has been developed in light of responses to the call for evidence from bodies under the Standards system and other stakeholders.
A copy of the White Paper can be accessed from the following link:
https://consultations.gov.wales/consultations/welsh-language-bill-white-paper
The consultation will run for 12 weeks until 31 October 2017. I urge all those with an interest in the language to offer comments and ideas to be considered. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss the content of the White Paper with a broad range of stakeholders to help us ensure the legislation is suitable to support us working towards our vision of a million Welsh speakers by 2050.
There will be an opportunity for Members to debate the content of the White Paper in the Senedd in the autumn.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Assembly returns, I would be happy to do so.