THE MS for Aberconwy has been elected as vice-chair of the cross-party group on the Clean Air Act for Wales.

Janet Finch-Saunders, who is also Shadow Minister for Climate Change, said she hopes that plans to bolster the regulation of air quality across the country are ramped up.

“Given an estimated 2,000 people die early each year as a result of poor air quality, I am adamant that we must work together to ensure that the Welsh Government now expedites their Clean Air Act proposals to safeguard public health and meet the nation's carbon emission targets," she said.

“Poor air quality is one of the 21st century’s biggest hazards, with five towns and cities in Wales all reporting illegal and dangerous levels of air pollution over recent years."

Proposals for the Clean Air Act, which was subject to a White Paper in January this year, include consolidated powers to implement Clean Air Zones or Low Emission Zones, strengthened powers to address vehicle idling, the enhancement of existing powers for smoke control linked to tackling air

pollution from domestic burning, and a duty on inter-sectoral workforces to adhere to guidance to tackle air pollution.

Mrs Finch-Saunders added: “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. The meetings of this CPG will guarantee that this remains at the fore of political conversation, ensuring that we get its implementation right.”