Eluned Morgan

Wales First Minister

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THE population in Wales is older, poorer and sicker than the UK as a whole.

This debate about reforming our welfare system will have more of an impact in Welsh communities.

It is close to my heart and is worrying many people. I am concerned about how the proposals will affect families and my government has made that clear in its response to the Green Paper.

We understand the need for reform. The welfare system is there to catch people when they fall and help them bounce back.

But in the past too many people have struggled to bounce back and join the workforce.

Our job is to support people by giving them what they need to get ready for the workplace and then get a job if they can.

UK politics will feel the impact of the Welsh election in May 2026.

Judging from the tone of debate in the Senedd, the campaign has already begun!

At a time of so much division, the question we all face is whether to look forward with hope and determination or go back to the old divisive rhetoric of the past.