Noting that Wales currently has the highest Covid-19 infection rate of the UK nations, Leader of the Opposition, Paul Davies MS (Con, Preseli Pembs.), raised speculation over further measures. Given that most of Wales exceeds the threshold for Level 4 of the new restrictions system, when would a decision be made on new restrictions?
Additionally, given that two health boards have now suspended non-urgent treatment and fresh warnings over critical care capacity, what was the First Minister’s reaction to an offer from the Welsh Secretary to treat non-Covid patients in English hospitals?
The First Minister told members that the situation was being monitored daily with the issue of Christmas easing of restrictions is due to be discussed with representatives across the UK later this afternoon. Each of the UK’s nations has spent time at the top of the table for new infections at some point, so it was an evolving situation.
On the issue of hospital capacity, the problem wasn’t physical capacity (i.e. the number of free beds) – which was stretched, but not near breaking point. The problem is the high proportion of self-isolating staff. The First Minister fully endorsed the principle of mutual aid in the UK. Help goes both ways – such as Wales supplying 11million pieces of PPE to the English NHS.
With a Senedd debate on free school meals coming up later this week, Adam Price MS (Plaid, Carms. E. & Dinefwr) slammed the Conservatives for being ideologically opposed to providing help for people at the bottom of the social latter.
The record in Wales, while a bit better, was still substandard. 180,000 children live in poverty and 70,000 children living below the poverty line are currently ineligible for free school meals. Scotland has committed to providing free school meals to all primary school pupils, while in Finland, free school meals are provided to all children – a policy Plaid Cymru would seek to emulate.
The First Minister defended his government’s record on free school meals, believing it would stand up to any and all scrutiny. Wales was the first part of the UK to guarantee them (until Spring 2021) and Wales also provides the highest allowance in the UK, with additional funding for Year 7s set to be rolled out next year.
Taking inspiration from a Fabian Society pamphlet, he went on to say that free schools meals were about more than food. They were a society’s investment in children’s future and a sign that children from all backgrounds were valued.
That said, there was always more the First Minister would like to do – but he wanted to know where the money would come for Plaid Cymru’s commitment given that the Welsh Government will have to draw from reserves next year? The detail of a policy needs to be considered – and he would consider it further if Plaid Cymru provides it – not just the headline.
