00:00The First Minister has refused to back the UK Government's benefits cuts, saying she'll
00:05reserve her position until she fully understands the impact on Wales.
00:09Eluned Morgan told Senedd members she is still waiting for answers from Westminster, despite
00:14writing to Work and Pensions Secretary weeks ago.
00:17During a scrutiny meeting hearing last week, she said she had not received a response and
00:21would be chasing a reply.
00:23It comes despite promises from both the UK and Welsh Labour governments that they would
00:27work closer together.
00:29Since Labour took power in Westminster, both sides have insisted they want a stronger relationship,
00:34but this latest row over benefits suggests communication is anything but seamless.
00:40Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed major changes to benefits in her Spring Statement this week,
00:44including cuts to the Personal Independence Payment, or PIP, which is claimed by around
00:49250,000 people in Wales.
00:52A Government assessment found the reforms could leave 3.2 million families without across
00:56England and Wales, and potentially push 250,000 people into poverty.
01:02Plaid Cymru's Llyr Gruffydd challenged Morgan's position, pointing out that Wales Secretary
01:06Jo Stevens had previously suggested she supported the cuts.
01:10As to clarify, the First Minister initially stayed silent before insisting she was waiting
01:14for absolute clarity before taking a firm stance.
01:18She acknowledged that rising numbers of people claiming benefits was not a sustainable situation,
01:22but said she would need to assess how the Welsh Government could support those affected
01:26before making any decisions.
01:28With no clear answers from Westminster and no firm stance from Cardiff Bay, the relationship
01:33between the two Labour governments is once again being tested, leaving those who rely
01:38on benefits still uncertain about what happens next.
01:41James Beach Watkins, reporting for Local TV in Cardiff.
