Welsh First Minister Faces Scrutiny in Senedd Questions Session
On September 23, 2025, Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan fielded questions from assembly members in the Senedd, addressing pressing issues including healthcare funding, education reforms, and environmental policies. The session highlighted ongoing debates over devolved powers and budget allocations amid economic constraints. Opposition leaders pressed for accountability on key promises, revealing tensions in Welsh governance.
A Day of Debate in Cardiff
The Senedd, Wales' devolved parliament, convened on September 23, 2025, for the weekly First Minister's Questions (FMQs), a pivotal forum where Eluned Morgan, the Labour leader and First Minister, responded to inquiries from Members of the Senedd (MSs). The session, starting at 1:30 PM BST and lasting approximately 45 minutes, covered a range of domestic concerns, reflecting the broader challenges facing Wales in a post-Brexit and post-pandemic landscape. This particular FMQs occurred against the backdrop of national economic forecasts, including recent OECD warnings on UK inflation, which indirectly impact Welsh public services.
The timeline began with the standard opening, where opposition leaders from Plaid Cymru and the Conservatives initiated the questioning. Rhun ap Iorwerth of Plaid Cymru led off at 1:35 PM, focusing on healthcare waiting times, followed by Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies at 1:40 PM, who grilled Morgan on education funding shortfalls. Backbench questions ensued, touching on climate initiatives and rural transport. The session concluded at 2:15 PM with Morgan's closing remarks, emphasizing her government's commitment to progressive policies.
"Our priority is to deliver for the people of Wales, investing in the NHS and schools despite Westminster's austerity," Morgan stated in response to a query on budget priorities. "We won't shy away from tough decisions to build a fairer society."
Historical context is essential here. FMQs in the Senedd, modeled after the UK's Prime Minister's Questions, have been a staple since the assembly's establishment in 1999. Under devolution, Wales handles areas like health, education, and environment, but relies on UK-wide funding via the Barnett formula. Morgan, who assumed office in 2024 following Mark Drakeford's resignation, has faced criticism for perceived slow progress on manifesto pledges, including net-zero targets and poverty reduction. Recent events, such as strikes in the public sector and flooding in rural areas, have amplified calls for action.
Stakeholder voices were prominent. Ap Iorwerth challenged, "First Minister, when will you admit that your government's underfunding of the NHS is failing Welsh patients? Waiting lists are at record highs—action, not words, is needed." Davies added, "Education standards are slipping, and your response is more excuses. How do you justify cutting school budgets while inflation bites families?"
Experts and observers provided additional insights. Dr. Rachel Ashworth, a political analyst at Cardiff University, commented post-session: "This FMQs exposed the fragility of Labour's majority. With elections looming in 2026, Morgan must translate rhetoric into results to maintain public trust."
The implications extend beyond the chamber. Politically, the session could influence coalition dynamics, as Labour governs with informal Plaid support. Economically, debates over funding highlight Wales' dependence on UK allocations; the OECD's inflation forecast suggests tighter budgets ahead, potentially forcing cuts or tax hikes. Societally, issues like healthcare access affect vulnerable populations, with rural communities feeling neglected. Environmentally, questions on green energy underscore Wales' role in UK climate goals, with potential for job creation in renewables but risks if investments lag.
Looking forward, the government has pledged a autumn statement outlining spending plans, which may address some concerns raised. Critics argue for greater autonomy, including fiscal powers, to better tailor responses. As one eyewitness, a gallery attendee from Swansea, shared: "It's frustrating to see the same problems debated without resolution. We need leaders who deliver."
This FMQs session encapsulates the vibrancy and friction of devolved politics in Wales, where local priorities intersect with national and global pressures. As Morgan navigates these waters, the effectiveness of her responses will shape public perception and policy outcomes in the months ahead.