Answers to questions not reached in Plenary
21/10/2020Answers are published in the language in which they are provided, with a translation into English of responses provided in Welsh.
Questions For - Minister for Education
How is the Welsh Government supporting pupils with additional learning needs through the coronavirus pandemic?
The uncertainties arising from the coronavirus pandemic are particularly challenging for children and young people with additional learning needs, their families, and those who support and care for them. I am committed to doing everything possible to support these learners, parents and carers during this difficult time.
What assessment has the Welsh Government made of the resources required by Welsh universities to support teaching and learning for students during COVID-19 outbreaks on campus?
We have been working in close partnership with universities, NUS Wales and the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales to develop our collective response to the pandemic. We have provided more than £213 million to HEFCW this financial year, including an additional £27 million higher education investment and recovery fund, recognising the impact of the pandemic on universities.
What assessment has the Minister made of co-operation between local authorities in providing Welsh-medium early years education, particularly in communities close to county boundaries?
We regularly meet with local authorities to discuss the progress being made in developing and strengthening Welsh-medium education. The revised Welsh in education strategic plan guidance, which will be published in January 2021, emphasises the importance of both early years education and partnership working in the effective planning of Welsh-medium education provision.
Questions For - Minister for Finance and Trefnydd
What discussions has the Minister had with the Minister for Housing and Local Government about the funding allocation to Ynys Môn County Council for 2021-22?
I regularly meet with the Minister for Housing and Local Government and council leaders to discuss the local government funding formula through the finance sub-group. This formula generates the funding allocation for Ynys Môn.
What consideration has the Minister given to supporting the proposed building safety fund for leaseholders when allocating the Welsh Government budget for next year?
We are currently exploring ways forward that serve the best interests of both leaseholders and taxpayers, recognising the role building owners also need to play in funding this remediation.
What discussions is the Minister having with counterparts in the UK Government on the criteria that will be used to access the shared prosperity fund?
I will be raising this urgent matter again today during a meeting with UK finance Ministers. The UK Government’s progress on the shared prosperity fund has been extremely disappointing, and there is still no clarity on how it will function despite only two months remaining until EU funding tails off.