Answers to the Written Assembly Questions for answer on 19 January 2010

[R] signifies that the Member has declared an interest.
[W] signifies that the question was tabled in Welsh.

Contents

Questions to the Deputy First Minister and Minister for the Economy and Transport

Questions to the Minister for Health and Social Services

To ask the Minister for the Economy and Transport

Nerys Evans (Mid and West Wales): Will the Minister make a statement on the current situation regarding Concessionary Fare Scheme for 16-18 year olds and will the Minister confirm a) the findings of the pilot held in Bridgend, and b) whether this scheme will be extended. (WAQ55390)

Nerys Evans (Mid and West Wales): Will the Minister confirm whether the Bridgend pilot scheme to provide free bus travel for young people will be rolled out in other parts of Wales, giving details of where and when. (WAQ55391)

Answer issued on 22 January 2010

The half-fare concessionary scheme pilot for 16-18 year olds in Bridgend was welcomed by many young people. I am considering very carefully the findings of the evaluation of the pilots and the recommendations. I will announce my decisions in due course and will publish the evaluation report at the same time.

Jenny Randerson (Cardiff Central): How will the Minister encourage the introduction of audio visual announcements on buses through the forthcoming National Transport Plan for Wales as a way to increase bus patronage especially amongst disabled people. (WAQ55393)

Answer issued on 22 January 2010

We are working with the Department for Transport to investigate the provision of audiovisual systems on buses. In due course we will issue guidance on the benefits of such systems.

Nerys Evans (Mid and West Wales): Will the Minister be responding to the consultation recently released by the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills in Westminster on direction to Ofcom to implement the Wireless Radio Spectrum Modernisation programme as part of Digital Britain. (WAQ55394)

Answer issued on 19 January 2010

I am responding to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills’ consultation on the Direction to Ofcom to Implement the Wireless Radio Spectrum Modernisation Programme.

To ask the Minister for Health and Social Services

Andrew RT Davies (South Wales Central): What measures is the Minister taking to encourage innovation in Health Research. (WAQ55392)

Answer issued on 22 January 2010

A new collaborative arrangement has been agreed between WORD and the Technology and Innovation Branch of the Department of Transport and Economy (DE&T). WORD and DE&T have recently developed a new strategy to provide innovation and commercialisation support to the NHS and Healthcare Sector.