Welsh Government defends ‘Nation of Sanctuary’ spending
The Welsh Government has defended its Nation of Sanctuary policy after the Welsh Conservatives criticised spending on the scheme, warning it diverts money away from frontline public services.
In a written statement published on Monday, Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice Jane Hutt said the policy was about “responsibly managing and harnessing the opportunities which migration brings to Wales” and stressed that immigration and asylum decisions remain the responsibility of the UK Government.
She said delivery of the Nation of Sanctuary approach accounted for around 0.05 per cent of the Welsh Government’s overall budget, but argued it had a clear impact on integration, community cohesion and wellbeing.
“It does not decide who comes to the UK,” she said. “Our role in Wales is to shape people’s experience once they arrive, ensuring they can access mainstream services from day one, receive accurate information, and rebuild their lives with dignity.”
The statement highlights a focus on early support to prevent harm, including avoiding homelessness and safeguarding children and young people.
Jane Hutt said the approach had enabled people seeking sanctuary to contribute skills to communities and, where permitted, to take up employment supporting public services and local businesses. She added that volunteering and skills development played an important role for those without the right to work.
She also pointed to Wales’ response to the war in Ukraine, saying that of total Nation of Sanctuary expenditure between April 2019 and March 2025, 91 per cent had been spent supporting almost 8,000 Ukrainians who found refuge in Wales.
“I want to thank all those who have worked constructively and compassionately to assist those seeking sanctuary,” she said, highlighting the role of charities, third sector organisations and community groups.
The statement comes amid criticism from the Welsh Conservatives, who say the scheme represents misplaced priorities.
Leader of the Welsh Conservatives Dareen Millar MS said: “The Nation of Sanctuary scheme diverts millions from the public purse to fund a policy area that is not devolved.
“Immigration is the sole responsibility of the UK Government, yet Labour and Plaid Cymru are choosing to pour tens of millions of pounds into this scheme instead of fixing our struggling NHS or failing education system.
“Only the Welsh Conservatives can be trusted to cut waste, cut taxes, and refocus spending on the public services that people in Wales actually rely on.”
Jane Hutt said the Welsh Government would continue to press for quicker decisions on asylum cases and for any asylum accommodation in Wales to fully consider community cohesion and pressures on local services.
She added that Wales would continue to take a “considered, responsible and compassionate” approach, supporting people seeking sanctuary to put down roots and participate fully in society.
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