* Sarah Murphy MS, Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing

Two years ago, The Hughes Report (external link) was published setting out options for a UK redress scheme for women harmed by pelvic mesh and sodium valproate.

The Welsh Government recognises the profound impact on women and the continued distress caused by the absence of a comprehensive resolution. Those affected have shown extraordinary resilience and determination.

In her report, Dr Henrietta Hughes recommended a UK-wide redress scheme is set up to meet the needs of individual patients who have suffered "avoidable harm" because of the failures of pelvic mesh and sodium valproate. She also said individuals "must not be subjected to an emotional rollercoaster" and she said it would be profoundly unfair to commission this work if the government had no intention of providing redress.

Responsibility for progressing such a redress scheme rests with the UK Government.

Welsh Ministers have consistently pressed for progress through four-nation discussions and remain clear that further delay risks compounding the harm already experienced by women and their families.

The Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care has recently discussed this matter with ministerial colleagues from the UK Government and the other devolved governments. While discussions are ongoing, there is no decision about redress.

We will continue to press for progress, while ensuring our position is clearly understood.

On this anniversary, I reiterate our commitment to all those affected.

We continue to advocate for financial redress, to end the emotional rollercoaster of anticipation and the long-running harm.

We will take action where we have the power to do so, and work with others to achieve a fair and lasting resolution.