Written Statement - Progress of the inter-governmental talks on funding reform

On 17 April I met the Chief Secretary to the Treasury to discuss the progress of the ongoing talks on funding reform.

We noted the progress that has been made in developing a shared understanding of the evidence base. We also agreed that officials from the two Governments will continue to work closely together in the coming weeks. The aim is for that work to be completed before summer recess and the Chief Secretary and I will meet again at that time to consider the way forward, in advance of the Silk Commission’s report on fiscal devolution that is due to be published later in the year.    

The Chief Secretary and I reaffirmed the commitment of both Governments to constructive engagement on all issues relating to financial reform. We agreed that the Welsh financial settlement should provide fairness and accountability for Wales within a strong United Kingdom.