EARLIER this year I attended the launch of Wales’ first gas bus at Newport Transport.

Made by bus manufacturer MAN, the bus is fuelled by the same gas used in household kitchen cookers and central heating.

The bus was used by Newport Transport as part of a landmark eight-week long pilot, and the vehicles are cheaper to fuel as well as providing a quieter and safer eco-friendly journey for passengers.

Newport Transport has stated that it could be one of many to be used in the city in the coming years.

Gas buses provide a green alternative for operators.

I was delighted to hear that the minister for economy, science and transport, Edwina Hart AM, has established a low carbon vehicle expert steering group to provide recommendations on the development of a low carbon vehicle sector in Wales.

With over 150 automotive companies based in Wales employing 15,000 people, low carbon vehicles bring exciting opportunities for growth and jobs, as well as playing a role into our collective responsibility of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

I look forward to following the steering group’s progress, and hearing its ideas on how Wales can be a leader of low carbon vehicles.

l The theme of investment and innovation continues with the news that the Welsh Government is inviting charities and third sector groups to apply for up to £1.6 million of investment for projects aimed at tackling inequality and discrimination.

The money from the equality and inclusion fund is available for a range of projects and cover areas such as addressing hate crime, supporting marginalised groups and helping disabled individuals to live independently.

For more information visit http://bit.ly/13LbryF.

l The Welsh Government is also providing relief to those affected by the bedroom tax through the introduction of the smaller properties programme.

The programme will help registered social landlords focus on building more one and two bedroom properties, enabling tenants to downsize.

Thirty-one housing units in Newport will receive funding, equating to more than £1 million.

l I am holding street surgeries across the constituency during September.

You can contact me using the details below if you would like to raise any queries or concerns.

You can keep up to date with my work in Newport West and in the National Assembly by visiting my website rosemarybutleram.com or on Twitter: @RosemaryButler.

To be added to my e-mail newsletter list call 01633 222523 or e-mail rosemary.butler@wales.gov.uk