The Welsh government has secured backing from the opposition Labour party for its supplementary budget following agreement on additional funding for children with additional learning needs.
The Plaid Cymru-led administration will allocate an extra £60m for ALN services under the revised proposal. This represents a significant increase from the £40m annual allocation across three years that Labour had rejected during heated exchanges at the Welsh Parliament in late July, when the original mini-budget failed to advance.
Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates had previously called for £100m in funding when the supplementary budget was first presented. The party's initial rejection of the government's offer had resulted in contentious scenes during the final week of the summer term.
What does this agreement mean?
The deal removes a significant obstacle to the government's fiscal plans and demonstrates the possibility of cross-party cooperation on key policy areas. By securing Labour's support, the administration can now proceed with the budget without facing parliamentary defeat.
What happens next?
First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth commented on the breakthrough, stating:
This agreement reflects what can be achieved when parties across the Senedd work together.The supplementary budget is scheduled for debate and vote in the Senedd on 3 November, where it is now expected to pass with Labour's backing.
Key Facts
- The Welsh government and Labour party have reached agreement on a revised mini-budget
- The deal includes £60m in additional funding for children with additional learning needs
- Labour had previously rejected a £40m annual offer and demanded £100m
- The budget will be debated in the Senedd on 3 November
- The original budget had failed to pass in July amid disagreement between the parties
