Local MS, Peter Fox, has hit out at the Welsh Government calling for a refocus on investing in the economy and social services.

Speaking in a debate on the Welsh Government’s Spending Priorities, the Shadow Minister for Local Government and Finance described the treatment of the economy here in Wales as “an afterthought.”

Peter has also highlighted the need to ensure taxation powers in Wales are used to encourage and not punish young people and businesses from living in Wales.

In Monmouthshire, first time buyers could end up paying £12,000 more in land transaction tax then their counterparts across the border in England.

Retail, hospitality and leisure businesses could also end up paying double the rate of business rates as their competitors in England.

Commenting, Peter Fox said: “When it comes to spending priorities here in Wales, many people are concerned that the wrong priorities have been pursued and knee jerk budgeting has caused imbalances in the way frontline services have been prioritised over preventative areas demonstrating a distinct lack in forward planning.

“I want to live in a Wales where our elderly and vulnerable population can receive the social care they deserve, our young people are not punished for trying to buy a house here and our businesses do not pay more in taxes than their competitors in England.