New legislation to modernise the licensing regime Mobile Home Sites in Wales has taken a step closer towards becoming law after passing its first stage in the National Assembly for Wales.

The Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Member for South Wales West, Peter Black is sponsoring the private members' Bill through the Assembly. He thanked members for their support today and predicted that it could be law by the summer.

"The Bill will create a licensing regime that is a modern, fit-for-purpose framework that can be consistently implemented across Wales" said Mr. Black. "It will give local authorities the resources and powers to award and police licenses and to ensure site owners pass a fit and proper persons test.

"The Bill will offer more protection to mobile home owners by ending the veto on new sales and providing protection for existing residents from frivolous sale blocking. It will protect the anonymity of members of residents' associations so as to avoid intimidation by site owners.

"I look forward to Stage 2 proceedings, now starting after Whitsun recess, and the Bill being passed by the National Assembly before the Summer Recess