Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Finance and Local Government – in the Senedd at 2:00 pm on 15 December 2021.
Minister, during 10 years of Tory austerity cutting public services funding, local authorities have reorganised, restructured and made all efficiencies they could possibly make. They've become so lean that any new pressures, for example because of adverse weather, pay awards or new legislation, put them at risk of not being able to provide front-line services. Some legislation, such as taking on the responsibly of establishing advisory bodies for sustainable urban drainage or the additional learning needs legislation, was deemed cost neutral, but some councils no longer have the in-house resources or reserves following years of cuts. Would the Minister conduct a financial risk assessment and full consultation with local authorities before passing any new legislation or responsibilities? Diolch.