WIREDGOV

Vaughan Gething has become the Welsh Government’s first black minister.


On monday he was sworn in to the newly-created position of Deputy Minister for Tackling Poverty.

The Deputy Minister becomes the first black minister in any of the devolved UK governments.

He said:

“It is an honour to be appointed to this role and have the opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of the most vulnerable communities in Wales. Tackling poverty is central to the point and purpose of the Welsh Government. I am delighted to be taking up this post.”

“The impact of welfare benefit changes and state of the UK economy means that more and more people in Wales are facing difficult, and at times bleak, choices. I am committed to taking action that stops people getting into poverty and helps lift others out of it.

“I am not here to make up the numbers or act as window dressing. The challenges facing communities across Wales are very real and our response as a Government has to be focussed on delivering a practical, meaningful change.”

Later this week (Wednesday 3rd July) the Welsh Government will launch its Tackling Poverty Action Plan setting out how ministers will target resources to prevent poverty, alleviate its impact and help people into work.

The Deputy Minister will work with Jeff Cuthbert, the new Minister for Communities and Tackling Poverty.