Finance Minister Rebecca Evans will today [Monday 21 December] publish a Draft Budget designed to protect the NHS and the economy, build a greener future and create change for a more equal Wales.
In the first full Budget since the pandemic, the Welsh Government has set out its plans to help public services recover, support businesses and reach those hardest hit in this crisis.
Following a ‘deeply disappointing’ UK Government Spending Review, the Welsh Government’s Draft Budget outlines its priorities for the foundations of Wales’ recovery.
Speaking ahead of its publication, Finance Minister Rebecca Evans said:
“The consequences of this pandemic for our economy, our society, and our communities are truly profound.
“While there is no simple reset option in a global crisis of this scale, we can choose to invest now to protect what matters most and deliver the change that is essential to our recovery.
“This budget will prioritise our NHS and social services budgets with the best possible settlement, in difficult financial circumstances, for the local government services we all rely on.
“We will target new investment to combat climate change and support jobs and training while helping the most vulnerable and hardest hit.
“I am also proud that this Budget will boost our mission to tackle inequality, promote fair work and deliver greater opportunities for children and young people.”
The draft Budget 2021-22, which sets out one-year revenue and capital spending plans, will be published on the Welsh Government website later today.
