Pressing the First Minister of Wales following his admission that he has not had direct discussions with the UK government regarding metal theft, Cllr Janet Finch-Saunders AM said:
"In total, metal theft costs the UK economy £770 million per year. This is becoming a really serious issue, and it is fair to say that we are hearing now of regular occurrences—if not daily, then certainly weekly—and it is affecting all portfolios including education, health, heritage, communities and finance.
"I am calling today for the First Minister, to commit to working with the UK Government, which has in place a strong taskforce and plans, and to look towards taking a strong and robust approach so as to provide reassurance to those who have been affected and those who may be affected by this shocking crime."