7. Will the Cabinet Secretary make a statement on the publication of the Welsh Government’s budget proposals? (OAQ51073)

Dirprwy Lywydd, I will publish the Welsh Government’s outline draft budget on Tuesday of next week.

Thanks. The bedroom tax is, by far, one of the most unnecessary burdens faced by some of the most disadvantaged people in Wales. This is a tax that has only added more pressure to those who already struggle to make ends meet. The bedroom tax has, in many cases, been applied to those who simply don’t have the option to move into a smaller house. So, isn’t it about time that the Labour Government in Wales abolished a tax that punishes the most vulnerable in our society? If the Scottish Government is able to abolish the bedroom tax, why isn’t the Welsh Government doing the same? So, I want a commitment from the Cabinet Secretary whether or not he will commit to abolishing the bedroom tax through the next budget round.

Dirprwy Lywydd, the bedroom tax is not a matter devolved to Wales.