What recent discussions has the Minister had on the levels of reserves held by local authorities?
I publish information on the level of local authority reserves on an annual basis. The latest information, which includes reserves at the end of March 2021 can be found at : Local authority reserves: 2020 to 2021 | GOV.WALES. The 2020-21 year covers the first year of the covid pandemic during which significant extra funding was distributed to local authorities which local authorities have been managing on a flexible basis leading to an increase in reserves. A Local Authority’s level of reserves are a matter for its elected members. Following the local government elections in May this year, I have not discussed their reserves position with Authorities.