Welsh Conservatives’ call for a Clean Air Act gains traction

The pledge by the Welsh Conservatives to introduce a Clean Air Act is being endorsed by other parties, underlining its importance to the health of Wales.

Janet Finch-Saunders MS – the Shadow Minister for Climate Change, Energy and Rural Affairs, and Welsh Conservative spokesperson on Air Pollution – said:

“The pandemic has brought the health of our nation into sharp focus, and it’s clearer than ever before that a Clean Air Act is a necessity for Wales.

“While we are pleased that other parties recognise the necessity of such an Act, we know that it will take cross-party and collaborative work from all Members to make it happen, and a Welsh Conservative Government returned in next year’s elections will deliver just this.”

The need for a Clean Air Act is also recognised by Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Wales

Joseph Carter, Head of Devolved Nations at Asthma UK and British Lung Foundation Wales, said:

“Improving air quality in Wales is no longer a manifesto pledge for just one or two political parties. Clean Air is an issue that bridges the traditional party divide, it is an issue that affects us all and it needs addressing as soon as possible.

“While we do not know the full long-term implications air pollution will have on our children’s lungs, yet alone our own; we do know is that swift action now can, at least, limit further damage and protect future generations’ from poor quality air. 

“The Welsh Government have committed to a White Paper on a new Clean Air Act before the end of this Senedd term. We are calling for all parties to pledge to work together and ensure a new Clean Air Act for Wales is introduced in the first 100 days after next May’s elections.

“The Welsh Conservatives have made that pledge and we hope the other Welsh parties will follow suit.”