(Translated) What discussions has the Minister had with the Minister for Finance and Local Government on the impact of the draft budget on social justice?

The Minister for Finance and Local Government and I met during the draft budget planning process to discuss ways of addressing the cost-of-living crisis and other inequalities through the draft budget. This included meetings as part of the Cabinet sub-committee on the cost of living.

(Translated) Will the Minister provide an update on the support provided by the Welsh Government to families experiencing hardship due to the rising cost of living?

This year, the Welsh Government has provided support worth £1.6 billion, through programmes that protect disadvantaged households and families experiencing hardship. This includes funding for the provision of free school meals, the school essentials grant, our fuel support scheme and our childcare offer.

(Translated) What assessment has the Minister made of the use of bailiffs in debt collection on families living in poverty in Mid and West Wales?

When bailiffs collect debts, the amount owing increases and families face more stress. This is why early intervention from single advice fund services is important. During April to September 2022, SAF services helped people in mid and west Wales to write off debts totalling £697,000 and claim £3,463,636 additional income.