6. Mr Robinson asked the Minister of Finance to outline her discussions with the new British Government regarding the need for additional funding. (AQO 785/22-27)

I met the Chancellor in London last week along with the First Minister and deputy First Minister. That followed an initial meeting with the Chancellor in July shortly after she came into office. I also separately met the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the end of July. The meetings provided an opportunity to highlight the Budget pressures facing the Executive and to make the case that the Executive need to be properly funded and to be able to deliver the public services that people here expect and need.

However, as set out in the Prime Minister's statement and in the Chancellor's statement — they have been at pains to point out that a difficult Budget is coming — public finances are under extreme pressure, with Whitehall Departments being asked to find savings. Scotland and Wales are also facing significant pressures. The action being taken by the Scottish Government has been well publicised. While there will be further Barnett consequentials later this year, they will fall significantly below the level of pressures that we are currently facing. As I outlined to the Chamber last week, I will continue to make the case to the British Government that more funding is needed for public services and to support our families, workers and businesses.

We will move on to topical questions.