Confusing messaging from Health Minister helps no-one

The Shadow Health Minister – Andrew RT Davies MS – has called for clarity and an end to mixed messaging from the Health Minister after comments made today (November 13) caused confusion and anxiety over the Self Isolation Grant (SIG) scheme.

SIG was announced on October 30 by the First Minister, and is for people on low incomes who can apply for a £500 payment if they have tested positive for Coronavirus. It was stated that applications could be backdated to October 23. However, the Health Minister today said it opened for applications from November 1.

Andrew RT Davies MS – the Shadow Health Minister – said:

“There seem to be communication problems right at the very top of the government here in Wales. A few months ago, the Health Minister didn’t tell the First Minister about the scandalous data breach at Public Health Wales for a fortnight, and today, he contradicted what his boss announced about the Self Isolation Grant.

“If it’s not communication problems, then it looks like the Health Minister doesn’t know policies his own party is making.

“Either way, the people of Wales to be given mixed and confusing messages, which is bad enough at any time  and especially so during this pandemic. “

“They deserve better, and that starts with being clear and accurate with them.”