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Hefin David is the Labour Senedd Member for the Caerphilly constituency.

Rachel Reeves announced her Autumn budget yesterday and it was interesting to see the difference that can be made, having two Labour Governments working together.

Through work with Welsh Government ministers, the chancellor announced a £1.7billion increase in funding for Wales – the biggest increase in the history of devolution. This also includes £25million specifically for ensuring the safety of coal tips across Wales, something which is very important to many here, particularly in Bedwas and Trethomas.

This is very fitting, given the recent anniversary of the Aberfan disaster, on October 21.

We also heard a commitment from the UK Government to redress the deep unfairness of the Mineworkers’ Pension Scheme, meaning thousands of former miners will finally receive what they are owed. There is also compensation for those affected by the Infected Blood Scandal – which includes people who live in my constituency. You can read more about the work I have done on this here.

In April the national living wage will increase, hopefully providing a boost for around 70,000 workers in Wales and those who receive state pension and pension credit will also see an increase in the amount they receive.

This will benefit hundreds of pensioners across my constituency, particularly in the Aber Valley, Bedwas, Bargoed and Gelligaer where the take up for extra support is greatest.

While times are still challenging, particularly for those on low incomes and local authorities, it is good to see what can be achieved when there is a UK Government in power who are willing to meaningfully engage with Welsh minsters and show that they respect devolution. I am confident that we will see more of these productive conversations to come, which can only mean a more positive future for everyone in Wales.