Welsh Finance Minister Mark Drakeford has outlined seven key demands he is making of the UK Government ahead of the upcoming budget announcement on October 30. With Chancellor Rachel Reeves set to reveal Labour’s first budget, there is anticipation surrounding the implications for Wales under the new administration.
During a recent Senedd debate, Drakeford addressed inquiries about potential increased funding for Wales under the UK Labour government. In response to a query by Conservative MS Laura Anne Jones, Drakeford highlighted his efforts in advocating for Wales’s financial interests, revealing that he had corresponded with Chancellor Rachel Reeves regarding Wales’s priorities.
In his communication with Reeves, Drakeford emphasised the following key points: the necessity for a fair approach to Barnett consequentials, a call for increased investment in public services to tackle waiting times and poverty, support for communities impacted by changes at Tata in Port Talbot, and policy support in reserved areas such as carbon transport and offshore wind.
Moreover, Drakeford stressed the importance of addressing safety concerns associated with disused coal tips in Wales and urged joint funding from the UK Government for their remediation. He also called for ongoing collaboration between the two governments on funding decisions for post-EU funds, highlighting the need for sustained support in various sectors.
With the budget looming, the outcome of Wales’s appeals for HS2 funding remains uncertain. Despite recent discussions with Prime Minister Keir Starmer urging fair play for Wales, Finance Minister Drakeford’s demands underscore the significance of securing adequate resources for the nation’s development priorities. As the budget date approaches, Wales awaits the government’s response to these crucial requests for financial support.