The Impact of Austerity on Equality

Part of Questions to the Deputy Minister and Chief Whip – in the Senedd at 2:39 pm on 14 May 2019.

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Photo of Leanne Wood Leanne Wood Plaid Cymru 2:39, 14 May 2019

The Institute for Fiscal Studies report on wealth inequalities in the UK has laid bare the gaping chasm between rich and poor. Among the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries, the UK is the second most unequal country, after the United States. This is a disgraceful state of affairs, and it's been now described by the report's authors as a threat to democracy. It's also a damning indictment on various Westminster Governments that have presided over growing inequality, and that is including Labour. It's worth remembering that austerity started under Labour, and the first food banks came about while there was a Labour UK Government. Here in Wales, our hands are tied in many ways, as we lack many of the economic levers that we need to bring about fundamental change. However, Labour in power have hardly set a good example by shutting down the Communities First scheme and failing to replace it. So, in the absence of a dedicated anti-poverty programme, what is your Government's strategy to reduce poverty?