THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has today (June 17) published its First Supplementary Budget for the 2025-26 financial year.

The updated budget reflects adjustments made since the Final Budget was agreed in February and includes several allocations from the Welsh Government’s reserves. It also incorporates changes to baseline funding following UK Government fiscal decisions earlier this year.

According to the written statement issued by the Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Welsh Language, Mark Drakeford MS, the revised budget is designed to keep public spending aligned with shifting economic conditions and priorities.

The Supplementary Budget outlines how money will be reallocated or drawn down to address emerging pressures or policy changes. It forms part of the normal financial planning process and gives the Senedd an opportunity to scrutinise government decisions taken since the Final Budget.

A debate on the Supplementary Budget has been scheduled for Tuesday, July 8, in the Senedd.

The Welsh Government said the changes ensure financial flexibility while remaining within overall spending limits.

Further details, including the full budget breakdown, are available on the Welsh Government’s website.

Photo caption:
Finance lead: Mark Drakeford MS will present the Supplementary Budget to the Senedd on July 8 (Pic: Herald)

BUSINESSPEOPLE across Wales have gained exclusive behind-the-scenes access to JCB Transmissions to learn about its new hydrogen generator technology, workplace culture, and future developments.

Organised by the Institute of Directors (IoD) North Wales, attendees toured the facility in Wrexham and received expert insight into the company’s role in manufacturing components for carbon efficient machinery from JCB operations director Craig Weeks.

Guests were equipped with professional leadership knowledge as Craig shared his career journey with the multinational manufacturing business, as well as highlighting key decisions made to increase business growth and efficiency.

He also revealed practical ways the firm invests in its workforce by utilising training opportunities provided by the North East Wales Skills Academy (NEWSA) and Gatewen Training Services.

David Roberts, chair of North Wales IoD, believes the event spotlighted JCB’s innovation and contribution toward Wales’ net zero by 2050 target.

He said: “From its latest hydrogen generator technology to its production of gearboxes, axles, and transmissions systems, it’s evident that JCB Transmissions is paving the way as a leader in creative, cutting-edge renewable technology.

“Moreover, I think the experience gave guests the chance to understand ways in which they could make more informed investments and the long-term benefits of upskilling members of their respective teams.

“Seeing business leaders and directors attend from across Wales was also very encouraging and I hope they feel more empowered to excel in their industries.”

Speaking about Craig, an IoD North Wales Skills Development award winner, David continued: “I think there is a lot to learn from his leadership.

“His careful, considered allocation of company resources, alongside his career path from axle and gearbox technician to operations director, demonstrates great creative direction and tenacity.

“Overall, building a supportive and welcoming culture in any firm is essential for longevity and it’s something I think JCB Transmissions showcased to all attendees.”

To become an IoD volunteer, contact David Roberts on 07899 910 293.

For more information and to view upcoming events on the IoD in North Wales, visit www.iod.com/events-community/regions/wales

A NEYLAND man has pleaded guilty to making 20 indecent images of children — including seven of the most serious Category A images — at his home address.

As a result of the pleas entered before Haverfordwest magistrates on Tuesday (June 17), JAMIE DAVIES, 46, is now a registered sex offender.

Davies admitted making seven Category A images, ten Category B images and three Category C images between January 28 and November 4, 2021, at his home on Springfield Avenue, Neyland.

He denies further allegations of engaging in sexual communication with children by sending sexually motivated messages to girls under the age of 16 with the intention of eliciting sexual responses. He also denies causing or inciting girls to engage in sexual activity — including children under the age of 13 — and two further charges involving penetration.

The Crown alleges that all offences took place at Davies’ home address over a prolonged period of time.

“A phone was recovered from the defendant’s pocket,” said Crown Prosecutor Sian Vaughan. “He was interrogated, and there were clear conversations between the defendant and young people who were aged between seven and 17. Sexual activities took place between both parties.”

Given the seriousness of the allegations, magistrates declined jurisdiction and the matter will now proceed to Swansea Crown Court, where proceedings will begin on July 18.

Davies was released on unconditional bail.