Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The autumn Budget made minor adjustments to Wales’s borrowing limits. Scotland has more extensive borrowing powers, providing greater flexibility for capital project investments.
Why have the recent tweaks to Wales’s borrowing powers been so small? Why haven't these tweaks even offset the inflationary losses since those limits were established?
The UK Government is providing the Welsh Government with nearly £6 billion in additional spending power over the spending review period, as a result of changes to the fiscal framework, additional funding through the Barnett formula and the largest settlement in devolution history. These changes mean that the Welsh Government will be able to invest more funding in hospitals, schools and other public services.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Specifics on why tweaks were small and didn't offset inflationary losses
General Statement About Funding
Response accuracy
Q2
Direct Answer
▸
Context
The Welsh compound semiconductor cluster in Ruth Jones's constituency has attracted over £1 billion investment, supporting around 3,000 jobs. Plans are underway to create another 1,000 jobs.
What conversations is the Secretary of State having with UK and Welsh Government colleagues to ensure that the Welsh compound semiconductor cluster continues growing and creates more well-paid jobs across south Wales?
I have seen the success of the Welsh compound semiconductor cluster first-hand and, last week, the Chancellor announced £10 million for semiconductor activities in south Wales. This funding will focus on technology central to artificial intelligence and data centres to support innovation, strengthen supply chains and develop skills needed for future growth. Two weeks ago, I was at Cardiff University—a key partner for the cluster—to announce the south Wales AI growth zone, which will create more than 5,000 new jobs.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
▸
Context
The Chancellor visited Wales to avoid scrutiny over a self-inflicted controversy. There was criticism about the Chancellor's claim regarding additional funding for Scotland being given because Anas Sarwar asked.
Why hasn't there been any mention of the Welsh First Minister, Eluned Morgan? Why does the Secretary of State use figures that cannot be extrapolated from to show what independence would do in Wales?
I am surprised at the right hon. Lady’s tone. While this Labour Government makes record investment in Wales, Plaid Cymru’s response is grievance politics. It has not explained which taxes it would raise and which public services it would cut to pay for its disastrous independence plan that costs every person £7,000 a year.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Transparency of funding mechanisms and impact assessments
Criticizing The Opposition
Response accuracy