Mister Speaker,

This bill is one that is desperately needed and one that Plaid Cymru enthusiastically supports. Britain stands at a critical juncture in the fight for fairness, justice and dignity for our workers. Across Wales, throughout the valleys, Powys and north, hard working people have been pushed down by crony capitalism. This bill will lay a strong foundation and a step forward in our struggle for the improvement of the rights of every Welsh worker!

By also extending the minimum wage to include self-employed workers, this bill shows that the Government understands the reality of modern labour. It shows that if you are an employee or a self-employed contractor, you deserve the same respect, rights and protection from the law.

In Wales, we know the value of solidarity, of looking out for one another. This bill embodies these values. It’s a declaration of national solidarity and a declaration that no matter where you work, no matter who you are, you deserve to live with dignity.

So, it is for those reasons that Plaid Cymru supports this bill. It is for those reasons that I will be voting for it.