Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Social Justice – in the Senedd at 1:59 pm on 5 October 2022.
Good afternoon, Minister. There is, as we know, a significant rise in foodbanks across mid and west Wales, and in Montgomeryshire, and I thank Russell George for raising this very important issue within Montgomeryshire. It is an absolute disgrace, and I would agree with Sioned Williams in this regard. Having spoken to a foodbank in Montgomeryshire recently, they were clear that there were two challenges they face this autumn and winter, given the cost-of-living crisis. One is that they are receiving fewer donations and the other, sadly, is an increased demand. Over the school holidays, a local fish and chip shop in Newtown started providing free meals to children, because families simply didn't have enough money to feed themselves when free school dinners stopped for the summer. I know that you will agree with me that it is a disgrace that, in the world's fifth largest economy, families are struggling to survive. And I'm sure that you'll agree that the Conservative Party has a lot to answer for in this regard, so I really do hope, Russell, that you will take this further within your party, because we do need your support. Focusing on what the Welsh Government can do, could you just outline how you would continue to support community groups, foodbanks, and small independent businesses, like the ones I've spoken to in Montgomeryshire, that are trying to do their best to shield young families from the excesses of the cost-of-living crisis? Diolch yn fawr iawn.