6. Debate: Draft Budget 2022-23

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:40 pm on 8 February 2022.

Alert me about debates like this

Photo of Sam Rowlands Sam Rowlands Conservative 5:40, 8 February 2022

Minister, as you'll be well aware, councils have, of course, welcomed the local government settlement in general at a 9.4 per cent increase on average across those councils. But we have to recognise that that is after years and years of underfunding to councils across Wales. It's also important to note that there are some challenges with the way in which this funding is allocated, and I think it's something that Llyr Gruffydd mentioned before in terms of the future funding of councils as well. An example that I'll highlight—I'm sure you won't be too surprised at this—is that Conservative-led Monmouthshire County Council, run very well, may I add, will receive the highest increase in aggregate external finance next year, but in terms of that per capita funding, per resident there, it's the lowest at around £1,200 per person, completely different to that £1,900 per person per resident in Blaenau Gwent. [Interruption.] I'll take the intervention, Llywydd.