Jane Hutt, Minister for Finance and Government Business
The UK Government has indicated that this year’s Spending Review will contain further budget cuts for Wales. As part of our preparations, I will be undertaking a series of regional budget events across Wales this Summer.
The 2015 tour begins in Aberystwyth on 18 June, where I will meet staff from Hywel Dda University Health Board, local authorities, young apprentices working in the Aberystwyth area and representatives from housing associations and the third sector. Further meetings and visits are scheduled between July and September and will take place across Wales on the following dates:
2 July - Llandudno Junction
16 July - Cardiff
23 July - Swansea
3 August - Newtown
9 September - Llandudno Junction
10 September - Merthyr Tydfil
With the financial outlook continuing to look challenging, it is more important then ever that we draw on all the evidence available and build on what is working well. I have valued the engagement with staff from local authorities, health, housing and the third sector, which has been crucial in managing the cuts to date. I will again draw on the first-hand experience of our partners and those who use the services we provide to help inform our preparations for the 2016-17 Budget. I will also be using the Tour to prepare for the full implementation of the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act, which will shape our future approach to Budgets.
I will be making an Oral Statement on my Budget Tour 2015 in Plenary, on 23 June.