'Labour's last big opportunity to deliver for Wales has been wasted'

Wednesday's budget short-changed Wales, writes Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth, who here argues it shows 'Labour has already given up' on the nation...

- RHUN AP IORWERTH

THIS was Labour's last big opportunity to prove it understands Wales’ needs and is prepared to do right by our communities. Polling shows the people of Wales are losing faith, and this Budget only confirms why.

Instead of tackling decades of underinvestment, protecting families from rising costs, and giving our nation the economic tools to grow, Westminster has delivered more of the same.

Weak powers, billions of rail funds withheld, and half-measures on the cost of living.

It is clear that Labour has given up on Wales, six months ahead of the Senedd election.

Wales is being shortchanged again. Over £4bn owed from HS2 remains in Westminster coffers.

Even with small tweaks made, our fiscal powers are the weakest of any devolved nation, leaving us with less ability to invest.

Even with a 10% increase in borrowing powers, the Welsh Government’s limits are far below the £300m lost to inflation since 2018.

Local authorities and even the unelected Crown Estate continue to have more powers to invest, and without meaningful investment, our schools, hospitals, roads, and energy projects will continue to fall behind.

The dishonesty we see from Labour on tax is staggering.