Extra funding for NHS and councils as Welsh Government reveals spending plans

Additional funding for the NHS, to help tackle poverty and to help councils deliver day-to-day public services are some of the key measures outlined in the Welsh Government’s draft Budget for 2020-21.

Wrexham’s Assembly Member, Lesley Griffiths has welcomed the announcement which will result in every Welsh Government department receiving an increase in funding for the first time in a decade.

The £20 billion draft Budget outlines how the Welsh Government will invest in Wales during the next financial year.

Details include an extra £340 million for the NHS and additional £200 million to help local government deliver key public services.

In its first budget since declaring a climate emergency in Wales, the Welsh Government is protecting spend on renewable energy and zero carbon technologies.  A new £140 million funding package includes support for ultra-low emission refuse vehicles and low carbon housing, as well as helping restore Wales’ natural environment.

Specific measures will be introduced aimed at tackling poverty and funding for education will rise by 3.7% to £1.56 billion.

Lesley Griffiths AM said: “Ten years of UK Tory Government austerity has hit Wales hard.  The fact this is the first time in a decade the Welsh Government has been in a position to increase spending for every department underlines the challenging financial climate faced by our nation.  Despite the improving situation, spending in Wales remains £300 million lower in real terms today than it was in 2010.”

“As always, the Welsh Government will continue to do everything it can to protect frontline services from the negative impact of austerity.  Health remains a priority, taking up more than half of overall Welsh Government spending, and councils across Wales have received increased settlements, with Wrexham Council receiving a 3.5% rise.”

“This draft Budget demonstrates the Welsh Labour Government will use every penny at its disposal to invest in key services for the people of Wrexham and Wales.”