A SENEDD scrutiny committee has called on the Welsh government to appoint a minister for child poverty.

In a report titled Calling Time on Child Poverty published today, the equality & social justice committee is critical of the rising numbers of children living in poverty in Wales.

Chairwoman Jenny Rathbone said: “The Welsh government must set itself challenging and realistic targets and appoint a minister with specific responsibility for reducing growing child poverty.”

The report also recommends a root-and-branch review of the Welsh government’s approach before it finalises a new child poverty strategy.

Latest figures show that 28 per cent of all children in Wales live in relative income poverty, a shocking eight youngsters in a class of 30.

“There are more children and young people living in poverty than any other age group,” Ms Rathbone said.

“It’s a burning injustice which sits awkwardly with any claim to be a country that promotes fair play.”

Children’s commissioner for Wales Rocio Cifuentes said: “I have continuously called for a stronger plan to make a difference to the thousands of families who are struggling to make ends meet.”

Labour Senedd member Mike Hedges, who represents Swansea East, said: “I very much welcome the proposals and hope they become part of a wider debate on poverty in Wales and moves toward a real living wage.”

Plaid Cymru supported the proposal for a dedicated minister and called for bolder action to eradicate child poverty.

Plaid’s Sioned Williams said: “The vast number of children living in poverty in Wales is a cause for national shame.”