I WELCOME the result of the Independence for Scotland Referendum and I am pleased that they will remain within the Union.

I am a little cautious about Scotland's first minister, Alex Salmond’s view that “Scotland had not ‘at this stage’ decided to vote for independence”. I believe that he should accept that this referendum was (as he has said) “a once in a lifetime” event.

We need to look forward; both Mr Salmond and Scotland can lead the way. Much has been said about how this referendum engaged people in mature political discussions. Scotland must demonstrate this maturity by uniting and participating in the discussions on the future of the UK.

The people of Wales will also be called upon to be equally mature in our considerations of the future of devolution for Wales and other parts of the UK.

It is not simply a matter of expecting Wales to get everything that Scotland gets. We are two different countries and have separate and different needs. Future changes to the constitutional settlement must focus upon improving the lives of the people of Wales; and not change for change sake.

NATO Conference Legacy: Newport was placed in the global spotlight by this Conference. We need to ensure we use every opportunity to promote our region for tourism and economic investment.

I was pleased to see the announcements concerning the proposed Celtic Manor conference centre; this was a major step towards achieving Sir Terry Matthews desire to establish the Celtic Manor as the number one conference hotel in the UK.

This will benefit Newport, as it may generate 150 new jobs and boost spending by £30 million; creating a demand for over 100,000 bedroom nights per year - 80,000 of these in hotels throughout our region - the Celtic Manor Resort has the capacity to 20,000 a year.

Able Radio: Launched in 2008 in Pontynewenydd, broadcasting via the internet, Able Radio provides opportunities for people with disabilities to become socially interactive and enhance their employment prospects through music coaching, video and photography projects.

I am pleased to have visited their studio to witness the quality and professionalism of their radio broadcasts. I am excited about the proposal for them to move to Upper Cwmbran Infant School and realise the opportunity to expend their academy and services.

Access this link to find out how to listen to Able Radio: http://ableradio.com/listen