Rt Hon Peter Hain

New funding arrangements for Wales will ensure a fair deal for the people of Wales for years to come. Under the deal negotiated with the UK Treasury the UK will take action if Wales becomes disproportionately disadvantaged by the Barnett formula.

Mr Hain said “This commitment is a major breakthrough for Wales. The Barnett formula has served Wales well over the years but action was needed to ensure that funding did not fall below what Wales needs”.

“The financial situation is tough right now but we must not forget our principles. I am committed to the devolution process. For it work the right level of funding is needed. This shows the Government is committed to making devolution work. Next year the Welsh budget will rise to almost £15.5 billion, helping to ensure the delivery of front-line services that the people of Wales need. This deal will ensure Wales will always get the best possible deal in the future”.

Mr Haid added ” The Holtham commision made clear that, if we do not take action, spending could decline relative to the rest of the UK. That is not acceptable. And that is why I have fought so hard for this new commitment from the Treasury to assess the impact of future spending reviews in Wales. If a spending review results in a bad deal for Wales, if Wales is disproprtionately disadvantaged compared to other parts of the UK, then we now have a mechanism to take action”.

A portable electricity meter similar to the devices Cardiff Council will be loaning to residents

Cardiff Council is setting up a scheme where residents can borrow electricity monitors from libraries to help keep an eye on their energy bills.

The meters are quick and simple to install and allow people to see their energy usage which is also displayed in actual cost terms. By monitoring their consumption this will help people to reduce their bills

A total of 100 monitors will be available across Cardiff’s 20 libraries.

Councillor Judith Woodman, Executive member for Communities, Housing and Social Justice, said: “Cardiff Council has an ongoing commitment to help Cardiff residents reduce their home energy usage and these meters can significantly help with that.

“The monitors are simple to install and easy to use and by providing the opportunity for people to borrow these meters from libraries for short periods of time we will allow them to understand their home energy usage, reduce their usage and hopefully their bills.”.

She added: “A number of local authorities across the UK have introduced similar schemes in their libraries and these have been extremely successful with positive feedback from the public.”

The monitors will be available at all city libraries from this week.

Rhys Wiliiams - forced retirement

Educated at Ysgol Iolo Morganwg and Cowbridge Comprehensive School, Rhys burst onto the international scene in 2000 making his Wales debut in the Six Nations Championship match against Ireland in Dublin, playing at full-back.

He had already represented Wales at all age grade levels from Under 16 to Under 21, playing in the Youth World Cup in 1999. He went on to win 44 caps for Wales playing at full-back and wing and starred for Wales during the 2005 six nations, scoring two tries against Scotland on the way to Wales’ first Grand Slam for 27 years.

At club level, Rhys progressed through the age grade system at Cardiff RFC before making a try scoring debut as an 18 year old for the senior side in the 98/99 season. He was also part of the Cardiff RFC squad that won the Welsh-Scottish League title in 1999.

His record for Cardiff RFC and Cardiff Blues makes impressive reading, scoring 100 tries in 187 appearances for the club and then the region. He is in joint 7th place with Tom James in the all time top scorers for the Cardiff Blues with 100 points (20 tries) and was Captain of the Blues during the 2005/06 season.

Williams - a great servant for club and country

Speaking of the announcement Rhys said: “I’m obviously massively disappointed to receive the news from the Doctors, but I hope in the future to look back on my rugby career and be proud of my achievements in the game.”

“Rugby has been a huge part of my life and has given me many wonderful opportunities and memories.”

“I’ve been fortunate enough to see the world while playing the game I love and have met a lot of people and made many lifelong friends.”

“To Captain the Cardiff Blues during the 2005/06 season was a huge honour and I’m also proud that I’ve only ever played for my hometown of Cowbridge and for Cardiff and the Blues.”

“I’m also vey proud to have represented my country on 44 occasions.”

“I’d like to thank everyone at the Cardiff Blues and to all the supporters for all the encouragement they have given me, especially over the challenges of the last few seasons.”

“I would especially like to thank my wife Liz and family for all their support and also to my namesake, surgeon Rhys Williams and the Cardiff Blues medical team headed up by Tim Atter for all their efforts over the last year.”

“A new chapter in my life begins and I’m looking forward to gaining some experience in the business world.”

Speaking of the announcement Cardiff Blues CEO, Robert Norster said; “Throughout his entire illustrious playing career with Cardiff RFC, the Blues and the Wales national team, Rhys Gethin Williams has consistently proved to be the proverbial model professional. The level of warmth and affection he attracts from people across the game is perhaps unsurprising given his impressive rugby and athletic abilities, good nature and profile topped off with an almost unhealthy level of good looks! Joking aside, he remains a most genuine individual with a hugely likeable character who continues to represent our team and indeed our national sport so exceptionally well.

“Having fought so tirelessly to repeatedly rehabilitate following an appalling catalogue of injuries, it is fully understandable that this day has sadly now arrived. However, an enforced and premature retirement it most certainly is at the tender age of just 29 years of age. An articulate individual with an impressive skill set both on and off the field of play, Rhys is better positioned than many to successfully develop his onward career. Despite having done so much in his curtailed playing career, it is an absolute certainty that Cardiff Blues and the national sport of Wales has not heard or seen the last of this impressive ambassador of our game.”

Blues Director of Rugby, David Young added; “It is always a sad day when a player is forced to hang up his boots and even sadder one when one of the genuine good guys is put in that position which Rhys most certainly is. On the field, his pace and elusive qualities were an integral part of his success and marked him out as a special performer with try-scoring abilities up there with the very best to have ever worn the shirt. His game understanding is also of the highest order as was evident in his time as captain of the team and will serve him well in any onward involvement in the game he may choose to pursue.”

“On behalf of everyone at the Blues, I wish him every success following what has been a long, successful and distinguished playing career”.

Jenny Randerson AM

Welsh Lib Dem Shadow Transport Minister, Jenny Randerson AM has today called for plans to be brought forward to electrify the Valley Lines network immediately following the electrification of the Great Western line.

The calls come after officials from the UK Department of Transport told the Assembly’s Enterprise and Learning Committee that “there is logic” that the Cardiff Area Network could be electrified once main line work reaches Cardiff.

Jenny Randerson AM said: “It is clear that if we miss the opportunity to electrify the Valley Lines as part of the process of electrifying the main line, then this could be gone for decades.

“Experts say that once the electrification ‘factory’ is shut down, it is hugely expensive and time consuming to re-start it. Therefore, if we are ever going to see the Valley Lines turned into a speedy, economically beneficial, metro service, then this could be our last chance for quite some time.”

David Melding AM

Comment on today’s figures which show that the rate of so-called ‘enterprise births’ or new business start-ups in Wales is among the lowest in the UK, Shadow Minister for the Economy David Melding AM said:

“It is essential for the future health of the Welsh economy that we develop growth in the enterprise culture.

“That’s why we need to look at the resources we provide to people from within Wales seeking to start a business, and not be so reliant on outside investors.

“It is disappointing we have the second lowest rate of so-called enterprise births in the UK, but more encouraging that the five year survival rate is at the UK average.

“Support for new businesses must come from government, and is even more important at a time of recession.

“That’s why we will continue to press ministers in Cardiff to ease the burden on businesses across Wales from the proposed business rates revaluation due to come into effect next April.

“This rates rise could determine whether some entrepreneurs set up business at all, or whether existing firms remain trading, lay off staff, or shut up shop altogether.”

Jenny Randerson

Commenting on the publication of the Assembly Government’s Higher Education Strategy: For Our Future, Welsh Lib Dem Shadow Education Minister, Jenny Randerson AM said: “Higher Education does need to change and I welcome the intentions behind this strategy, but without real detail on improving research and development and exploiting this to build a better economy, we will never build a world class Higher Education system.

“I am also deeply concerned that the parting gift from Jane Hutt that will be remembered, will not be this announcement but will be the devastating financial cuts in the draft budget and the ever widening gap between funding for Welsh Universities compared to England.

“Next year, Labour and Plaid Cymru are slashing 5% from across the University budget when they should be freezing central administration budgets and investigating the misspending of money in the NHS.”

Jenny Willott MP for Cardiff Central

Commenting on today’s report from the Human Genetics Commission on the DNA database, Nothing to hide, nothing to fear?, Jenny Willott, Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Cardiff Central, said:

“The idea that the police are arresting people that they normally wouldn’t, in order to obtain their DNA, is deeply worrying.

“This report is right to highlight that the government has made the accumulation of innocent peoples’ DNA a national police priority. But there is no evidence to show that this has actually increased conviction rates.

“This is not only an abuse of the innocent until proven guilty pillar of our criminal justice system, it is extremely costly. Our research shows that it has cost well over £700m.

“The government’s new proposals are nearly identical to the old ones that were thrown out of the Lords only a month ago. I hope that Parliament treats these measures with the same level of respect.”

Professor Sir Martin Evans

Cardiff University will today mark the Inauguration of its new President, formally passing the honour from one major figure in the University’s history to another.

The Inauguration of Professor Sir Martin Evans as the 22nd President of Cardiff University will take place at a special ceremony (23 November, 5:30pm National Museum Cardiff), which will also recognise the outstanding contribution of Lord Neil Kinnock as president (1998-2009). The President is the most senior of the University’s honorary officers.

The University’s new President, Professor Sir Martin Evans, FRS won the Nobel Prize for Medicine in 2007 – the most prestigious honour in world science- for a breakthrough which is transforming modern medical science. Sir Martin was the first scientist to identify embryonic stem cells, which can be adapted for a wide variety of medical purposes. His discoveries are now being applied in virtually all areas of biomedicine – from basic research to the development of new therapies. Sir Martin is heralded worldwide as “the father of stem cell research” and named as one of “ten Britons who have shaped our world.”

Sir Martin succeeds Lord Neil Kinnock, who has held the post since 1998, having first studied at the University in the 1960s. Cardiff University is also where Lord Kinnock met his wife Glenys Kinnock, where he had his first taste of political leadership as President of the Students’ Union and where, in the last eleven years as President he has gained enormous pleasure in overseeing the international recognition won by University staff and students.

Vice-Chancellor of Cardiff University, Dr David Grant said: “It has been a major challenge for the University to find a successor to such an outstanding President as Neil. In Professor Sir Martin Evans, I know that the University has appointed a dedicated friend, ambassador, advocate and supporter of Cardiff University. Lord Kinnock, has presided over a period of immense development and great achievements at Cardiff and, Sir Martin who has led many of our developments will be a guiding-light as we strive for even greater success.”

Professor Sir Martin, Cardiff University said: “I am delighted and deeply honoured to accept my new role as President of Cardiff University.

Neil has presided over one of the most remarkable periods of growth and success in the University’s history. The University has much to look forward to in the future as we make exciting and significant progress in pursuit of our vision to be one of the world’s leading universities.”

Lord Kinnock said: “I am delighted that my successor Professor Sir Martin Evans is someone of real global distinction. I will continue to observe the ongoing success and new achievements of Cardiff University – but it will be as an observer rather than a participant. I will always of course, with or without any formal title, be ready, willing and eager to proclaim the worth of this University to which I owe so very much.”

A major new initiative to expand and enhance the University’s postgraduate research community will also be announced at the event. Recognising that the University’s President Professor Sir Martin Evans is one of the leading researchers of the age, the University will launch the President’s Research Scholarships. Marking the University’s largest investment in postgraduate scholarships, nearly £4M will enable around 80 talented and promising students to pursue postgraduate research studies at the University. The President’s Research Scholarships will be a significant addition to the University’s existing scholarship investments, aiming to enhance the number of people undertaking significant, challenging and innovative research to PhD level at Cardiff University.

Sir Tasker's daughter: Lady Mair Griffith-Williams unveiled the statue

A bronze statue of Sir Tasker Watkins, VC, has been unveiled today (Sunday 15 November) at the Millennium Stadium in the heart of Cardiff as a permanent memorial to one of the most accomplished Welshmen of the late 20th century.

It will stand in prominence on the elevated section of the main stadium entrance in Westgate Street where hundreds of thousands of visitors pass by throughout the year when major events and games are staged.

The bronze statue was unveiled today by his daughter, Lady Mair Griffith-Williams at a ceremony following a march past by troops and the band from the 2nd battalion of the Royal Welsh Regiment.

More than 150 VIPs attended the ceremony including the Lord Chief Justice, Lord Judge, the First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, Lord Dafydd Elis Thomas, The Archbishop of Wales and Major General R J M Porter.

The Welsh Rugby Union was represented by President, Dennis Gethin, Chairman David Pickering and Group Chief Executive, Roger Lewis.

Sir Tasker Watkins, who died in September 2007 aged 88, was widely regarded as one of the most influential Welshmen of the late 20th century and achieved global recognition for his achievements in several fields of individual endeavour.

Sir Tasker Watkins - one of Wales's greatest heroes

His rise to prominence in rugby administration and the law was achieved after his reputation was secured by a wartime act of bravery which earned him the Victoria Cross for exceptional valour.

He was President of the Welsh Rugby Union from 1993 until 2004 during 11 years which saw the game turn professional, the four Welsh Regions formed and the Millennium Stadium built.

As an accomplished barrister he rose through the judiciary to achieve one of the highest legal positions in the UK when he became the Deputy Chief Justice of England and Wales.

Throughout his life he retained a close and proud association and affinity with Glamorgan Wanderers RFC on the outskirts of Cardiff.

A military march began at Cardiff Castle today, through Westgate Street and to the Millennium Stadium where troops formed a guard of honour at the unveiling ceremony.

Lady Mair Griffith-Williams said: “”I am very proud that my father has been commemorated by this wonderful statue and particularly pleased it is here at the Millennium Stadium. The family is extremely grateful to everyone who has made this possible.”

The concept for a statue at the Millennium Stadium began when Cardiff based businessmen, Mr Stanley Thomas Senior and Sir Stanley Thomas, championed the idea which was then commissioned by the Welsh Rugby Union, the Welsh Assembly Government and Cardiff County Council.

WRU President, Dennis Gethin, said: “This statue is a fitting tribute to a Welshman who achieved such distinction through his involvement in the military, the law and rugby.

“His endeavours displayed astonishing courage, a remarkable intellect, profound wisdom and a sense of honour which earned him the respect of all who met him.

“This statue will serve as a signal to future generations that the dignity and humanity he always displayed are values all of us must strive to emulate throughout our lives.

“I am lucky to have counted Sir Tasker as a friend and, like everyone else who knew him, I was influenced by his example and humbled by his courtesy and caring nature.

“The impact he had on the professional, legal, sporting and cultural life of Wales cannot be underestimated and must be remembered by history.”

The First Minister, Rhodri Morgan, said: “Sir Tasker was a unique individual, and I stand by my belief that he was truly one of the outstanding Welshmen of the 20th century.

“The £25,000 funding from the Assembly Government towards his statue will ensure that Sir Tasker’s remarkable contribution to Welsh rugby and his services as a soldier and judge will never be forgotten, just as he never forgot his roots in the heart of the Welsh Valleys.

“When people visit the Millennium Stadium, they will look up to him as an iconic example of a man who was both gifted and determined, but at the same time, courageous and humble. Now Wales can continue to be inspired by his legacy for years to come.”

Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones said: “Sir Tasker’s lifetime of service to his country in so many different roles; war hero, lawyer, judge and sports administrator, is unparalleled.

“This statue, sited so closely to the national home of the game he loved, is a fitting tribute to an extraordinary man.”

The bronze statue of Sir Tasker stands nine foot high on a concrete plinthe above the ramp at ground entrance three to the Millennium Stadium.

It was sculpted by the Llantwit Major based artist, Roger Andrews, who has built an international reputation as a sculptor of human figures and landmark buildings.

He said: “This is by far the most thrilling project I have ever been involved in.

“I am so pleased that this statue of such a famous and well respected Welshman will be permanently housed outside the home of rugby here in Wales.

“If I never completed another work I am certain this is the one sculpture I passionately wanted to create.

“In order to achieve a true likeness of the man I have spoken to many of his friends and family because I wanted to capture his character as well as his physical likeness.

“Everyone I have talked to has spoken in awe of Sir Tasker who was clearly a great Welshman and also a genuinely likeable individual.”

Jenny Randerson

Commenting on today’s unemployment figures for Wales, Welsh Lib Dem Shadow Economy Minister, Jenny Randerson AM said:

“Another month, another set of figures show that Welsh families are more likely to be facing unemployment and hardship than most other places in the UK.

“We are continuing to see high unemployment, high economic inactivity, and high claimant counts.

“What is even more concerning for me is that all the data is beginning to show a trend of harsh and nasty unemployment among young people. We are at increasing risk of losing a generation to unemployment, poor health and resulting social problems.

“These are problems which will continue long after the recession comes to an end, and the Government’s cuts to the FE and HE budgets will make this situation worse.”

Shadow Secretary of State for Wales Cheryl Gillan MP said: “Unemployment in Wales continues to be a blight on the economy and on the lives of workers and their families struggling to survive Labour’s recession.

“In the last year 600 jobs a week have been lost in Wales. And in the last quarter almost half of all UK jobs lost have been in Wales.

“It’s clear that Gordon Brown and Rhodri Morgan’s plans to help Wales through the recession simply have not worked.

“That’s why Labour needs to take up our plans to Get Britain Working as a matter of urgency, providing more support for young people and creating thousands more apprenticeships and training places to prevent a generation being written off because of Gordon Brown’s recession.”

Shadow Minister for the Economy David Melding AM added: “These figures demonstrate that the short-termism of the Assembly Government’s approach has failed to reverse this damaging rise in unemployment.

“We need answers as to why despite a small fall in unemployment over the summer, we are witnessing a surge in job losses in Wales far greater than other parts of the United Kingdom.”