4. Debate on a Statement: The Draft Budget 2023-24

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 4:42 pm on 13 December 2022.

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Photo of Sam Rowlands Sam Rowlands Conservative 4:42, 13 December 2022

I'm sure that's a very helpful contribution, Llywydd. We're here to scrutinise and talk about the Welsh Government budget and statement made here today. I'm sure the Member would like to get elected to Westminster if she wants to scrutinise the Westminster budget in the future. 

Secondly, Minister, there are some serious questions to ask here about your consideration of council reserves, in terms of the settlement that's going to be announced tomorrow and what part that has played in your decision-making process.

And finally, Minister, in terms of the provision for local government settlement announcement to be made tomorrow, I wonder how discussions with local government colleagues have influenced so far any changes to the funding formula. I know it's something you've looked at with the WLGA and will continue to look at, I'm sure, but I was reminded again earlier this week that, for example, Denbighshire County Council receives on average 17 per cent more per head than a neighbouring local authority in north Wales with a seemingly very similar demographic. How is work progressing in terms of the funding formula? How has that influenced your intended settlement announcement that you're going to make tomorrow? Diolch yn fawr iawn, Llywydd.