No ‘major spending commitments’ in budget, Finance Cabinet Secretary
No ‘major spending commitments’ in budget, Finance Cabinet Secretary
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The Welsh Government will publish a one-year Draft Budget in October for 2026-27, with no major new spending commitments or policy changes, prioritising stability for public services and flexibility for the next administration, Finance Cabinet Secretary Mark Drakeford has confirmed.
The budget will include inflation-linked increases to departmental budgets and create a pool of unallocated funding to be used by the incoming Welsh Government following the 2026 Senedd election.
Mark Drakeford outlined the approach in a statement to the Senedd, describing it as a “responsible” plan that balances the need for certainty in an election year with the ability for a new government to shape its own priorities.
“This will provide a stable and reliable outcome for our public services and all who rely on them,” said Drakeford.
“It also gives the next Senedd a strong platform to align budgets with its priorities and implement a new Programme for Government from the outset.”
The 2026-27 Budget will maintain focus on the Welsh Government’s existing strategic goals: a healthier Wales, green jobs and growth, connected communities, and opportunities for every family.
Budget timeline:
- 14 October 2025: Outline Draft Budget (high-level Cabinet allocations)
- 3 November 2025: Detailed Draft Budget (budget expenditure lines)
- 20 January 2026: Final Budget published
- 27 January 2026: Budget debate and vote in the Senedd
By avoiding major new commitments, the Welsh Government aims to ensure continuity in public services while preserving financial flexibility for any incoming administration to deliver on its post-election agenda.
