Welsh Conservative AM – Paul Davies – will have an opportunity to bring forward an Autism Bill in the National Assembly for Wales after being selected in a ballot for backbench legislation.

The Preseli Pembrokeshire AM is one of a number of Welsh Conservative AMs to have championed an Autism Bill in recent years, and he is now seeking cross-party support for legislation to support the estimated 34,000 people in Wales living with autism.

Speaking after the ballot, Mr Davies said:

“The autism community is crying out for proper statutory identity, so that local authorities and health boards have a clear set of duties on the statute book.

“This is a great opportunity to ensure that Wales is leading the way in providing effective, consistent services for those affected by autism.

“It is my hope that Assembly Members of all parties will support this legislation, which can supplement the Welsh Government’s autism strategy and give it the teeth it needs to ensure that it is more than just a voluntary wish list.

“Above all, an Autism Bill would play a pivotal role in ensuring people with this condition are given the support they need.”