The draft budget for Wales over the next three years has been revealed.
The total health budget will fall slightly in cash terms by 2013-14 to £6.1bn. The education and skills budget will also fall slightly.
Other departments which will see significant cuts include economy and transport and environment.
The budget minister Jane Hutt said: “This draft budget is framed against the most difficult financial backdrop since the advent of devolution. “
Ms Hutt said the assembly government was on record as stating its opposition to the speed and depth of cuts imposed by the UK government at a crucial phase of recovery from recession.
“However having been dealt this hand, we are determined to do what it takes to stand up for the people of Wales and continue to provide the right support for those who need it most,” she said.
“Our draft budget is about building resilience – resilience in our economy, and in the provision of vital services on which people depend.”
The minister said that with the budget next year due to fall by £860m – it will be £1.8bn lower by 2014-15 – difficult choices had had to be made.
“Clearly there have had to be reductions in some activities,” she added.
“However, we have approached these choices on the basis of the best evidence available and have worked hard to reduce the duration and impact of any reductions.”
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