HC Deb 04 November 1996 vol 284 cc897-8
4. Mr. Michael

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales when he last met representatives of the voluntary sector in Wales to discuss future development of the sector. [281]

Mr. Jonathan Evans

I met representatives of the Wales Council for Voluntary Action on 21 August and addressed its annual general meeting on 26 September.

Mr. Michael

I am grateful to the Minister for that reply. Is he aware of the increasing demands on the voluntary sector in Wales and of the complications arising from local government reorganisation? Is he aware, for instance, that the Welsh Office guidelines provide for strategic development bids of up to £200,000—in the case of South Glamorgan county council—against bids from the voluntary sector of £4 million? What can he do to provide some stability both for local government and for the voluntary sector, given the increasing demands on both?

Mr. Evans

Through the Welsh Office, the Government have been providing significant sums to Welsh organisations. We provided about £24 million in direct and indirect grants to the voluntary sector in 1994–95; I have not yet had the figures collated for the current financial year, but I do not expect them to be all that different. In fact, I am well aware of the concerns outlined by the voluntary sector in particular about no certainty in relation to what the funding arrangements are, as a result both of the devolving of significant funds to local authorities and of local government reorganisation. That requires a partnership approach, on the part of local government as much as on that of the Welsh Office.

Mr. Richards

Is my hon. Friend aware that the Labour-dominated Conwy county council is planning to discontinue its funding of the Wales Council for Voluntary Action? Will he bear that in mind during the local government settlement and will he examine closely the financial irregularities of the council, which is fast gaining a reputation as the Lambeth of north Wales?

Mr. Evans

I am greatly concerned to hear that information. Most Members of all parties recognise the work that is done by the Wales Council for Voluntary Action and would wish to see it supported by local authorities. I note, for what it is worth, that in a paper produced by the hon. Member for Cardiff, South and Penarth (Mr. Michael), shadow Minister for the voluntary sector, it is asserted that his party's policy is that voluntary organisations should be essential partners. That message should also be learnt by local government.