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The new UK Government’s autumn budget has been described as the “first steps in the right direction” by Wales’ finance secretary.

Earlier this week, UK chancellor Rachel Reeves presented the UK Labour government’s spending plans – with an extra £1.7bn of funding for Wales over the next two years.

Former First Minister Mark Drakeford, who was appointed finance secretary back in September, said Ms Reeves was listening to Wales.

The budget includes £25m for coal tip safety – something welcomed by Mr Drakeford, despite Plaid Cymru concerns it is not enough.

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Mr Drakeford, who will be tasked with presenting the Welsh Government budget next month, said: “This is a [UK] Budget focused on fixing the foundations; rebuilding public services and creating a pathway of investment for growth.

“It marks the first steps in the right direction after 14 years of economic mismanagement by previous UK governments and the impact its decisions have had on people and communities.

“It is clear the chancellor is listening to what Wales needs. I look forward to working with the UK Government on our other priorities, including securing fair funding for rail.”

Coal tip safety

The budget has also been welcomed by Caerphilly’s Labour MS Hefin David, who highlighted the money for coal tip safety.

He said: “We have a coal tip in Bedwas which is classified as category D. This doesn’t mean that there is any imminent risk. However, the categorisation reflects the importance of it’s more frequent monitoring, due to its locality and close distance to the community”.

He continued: “Although Caerphilly Council are considering ways of remediating this tip, there still needs to be an increased level of care taken given the high amounts of rainfall we see, as a result of climate change.

“This funding from Westminster will support that maintenance, not just in Caerphilly, but across Wales. It’s good to see the two Labour Governments working together to achieve this”.

Mineworkers pensions

Also announced in Ms Reeves’ budget was a 32% boost to the annual pensions of 112,000 former mineworkers across the UK – an average increase of £29 per week per person.

Nick Smith, the Labour MP for Blaenau Gwent and Rhymney, said the move will “make a big difference to many people across our valleys”.

Mr Smith, who has long campaigned on the issue, continued: “Miners worked deep underground to keep our country running. It was dangerous and difficult work, and they did it for decades. They deserve a fair deal.

“Labour has delivered to do the right thing by retired mineworkers and their families.”