I HELD a short debate in the National Assembly this week calling for the introduction of default 20mph speed limits in built-up, residential areas.

This would be the maximum speed subject to the local authority exempting roads where 30mph is more suited to local circumstances.

The benefits of 20mph limits are plentiful - roads are safer, meaning greater protection of life and limb, it allows local communities to reclaim their streets by encouraging more walking and cycling to improve health and fitness, fosters community interaction and cohesion, facilitates children to play outside and tackles air pollution.

We must continue to try and find robust interventions that will have positive effects on the challenges facing public health today - air pollution, obesity and road traffic injuries are all inter-related.

Introducing 20mph limits is a tangible action plan that would help meet these challenges.

The debate has led to interesting discussions and I am calling on the Welsh Government to make 20mph the default speed for Wales.

It will allow us to reclaim our roads and create community streets.

To see my full contribution and the rest of the debate, please visit senedd.tv

- I hosted the first Cross Party Group (CPG) on Policing in the National Assembly for Wales this month.

It was well attended with representatives from numerous bodies including police and crime commissioners, chief constables, deputy chief constables and AMs from different parties to discuss the current policing situation in Wales.

The CPG will aim to question how policing operates within the devolved and non-devolved aspects of public service in Wales, as well as discussing what the current issues facing the service in Wales.

It will discuss current issues and how best to engage with the National Assembly on policing challenges and on policy and practical issues of common interest.

I look forward to further meetings over the coming months which I hope will lead to more discussions and debate.

- Newport Live’s Sport in the Park is returning this summer holidays.

There are numerous family fun days going on all over the city and it’s a wonderful opportunity for the whole family to enjoy sports with various games and activities taking place.

For more information on how to get involved, please visit newportlive.co.uk/sport-leisure/families-and-children/sport-in-the-park