NEW measures to support people with autism in Wales could become law after AMs backed plans to put together draft legislation on the issue.

A call by Conservative AM Paul Davies to be able to introduce a draft Autism Bill won support of AMs in the Senedd yesterday.

If passed the bill will require local authorities and health boards to take specific action to support the 34,000 people in Wales with the condition.

Presenting the proposal, Preseli Pembrokeshire AM Mr Davies said: “This proposed bill would fundamentally at its core ensure a continued and dedicated focus on the needs of people with autism, regardless of the colour of Welsh Governments in the future.

“People living in Wales with autism can be sure that regardless of the outcome of Assembly elections, the provision of autism services will continue to remain a solid priority for any incoming Welsh Government.

“In effect, this bill will de-politicise the provision of autism services and ensure that it will no longer be a political issue.”

Speaking later in the debate, he added the bill should be “bespoke to the needs of the Welsh autism community”.

Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood backed the plan, saying: “I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve met parents with despair who’ve battled to get services for their children and haven’t been able to.

“Surely it’s the role of government to make sure that everyone can play a full part in society?

“Too many people are prevented from doing so at the moment, too many people feel as though our society is not designed to fit them.”

Labour Torfaen AM Lynne Neagle also spoke during the debate, calling the plan “very worthy of further consideration”.

Although Assembly cabinet members abstained on the vote, Labour backbenchers were free to vote as they wished, and the plan was approved by 40 votes.

Mr Davies now has 13 months to draft a bill.

In October 2016 the Welsh Conservatives called for an autism bill, but were voted down.