WREXHAM’S MP has welcomed a funding boost to the Welsh Government as part of the UK’s coronavirus response.
The Welsh Assembly will receive at least £475 million from the UK Government to make sure they have the resources they need to support people and businesses through COVID-19.
This will mean they can increase funding for the NHS and provide grants for businesses.
This is in an addition to the UK-wide support that people in all four corners of the country will receive through the UK Government.
This includes extending Statutory Sick Pay, making it easier and quicker to access benefits, and providing a Business Interruption Loan Scheme, among other measures.
MP for Wrexham, Sarah Atherton, said: “Following the response package announced in the budget last week, nearly half a billion pounds is now being allocated by the UK Government to help the Welsh Government meet this exceptional challenge and we will continue to work closely with the Welsh Government to ensure the money reaches those who need it.
"This £1.5 billion announcement is part of the £12 billion response plan announced last week to support public services, people and businesses through the disruption caused by COVID-19.
"This included a £5 billion COVID-19 Response Fund for the NHS and public services, a £500 million local authority hardship fund, business rates reliefs and £3,000 grants for the smallest businesses - all of which cover devolved policy areas meaning additional funding is being made available for the devolved administrations.
"I will continue to work closely with the Welsh assembly as the situation develops to ensure they have the funding needed to tackle the impacts of COVID-19."