Big news in Welsh politics! Senedd Members are set for a 4.5% pay rise next year, outpacing current inflation rates. This means their base salary will jump to £79,817 after the 2026 election. This rise isn’t pegged to the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI), which dropped to 3.2%, but instead aligns with figures from the Office of National Statistics’ annual wage study.
Senedd’s remuneration board has made these decisions to reflect the increased responsibilities of Welsh politicians. Even as the Senedd expands from 60 to 96 members in May, the debate around their pay is buzzing. With a total projected cost of over £40 million for the additional members over three years, there’s a lot to talk about.
To break it down, the First Minister’s salary will top £173,600 in 2026, with Cabinet Ministers earning £124,713 and Deputy Ministers £106,008. The changes come alongside big shifts like new election systems and constituency arrangements. With nearly two-thirds of the pay increase occurring over just one year and no politician’s vote needed on their pay hike, many are questioning the balance between fair remuneration and value for money.
Elizabeth Haywood, chair of the remuneration board, highlights the need for clarity and fairness as these adjustments roll out, aiming to equip members for the challenges of a more complex Senedd. With public consultations ongoing, the discussion around these changes continues. What’s your take on this? Let us know in the comments!