Asturias President Barbón announces social-focused budget

During a session of the General Junta of the Principality of Asturias, President Adrián Barbón announced that the upcoming regional budget will have a “greater social dimension than ever.” Barbón emphasized that public funds will be used to strengthen essential services, including healthcare, education, the university system, and early childhood education for children aged 0 to 3.

Barbón defended his administration's management, citing increases in medical staff, teaching personnel, and employment numbers. He also highlighted the benefits of free university tuition and free public childcare for families. In contrast, Álvaro Queipo, president of the PP in Asturias, criticized the administration for being disconnected from local realities, specifically citing issues with housing, taxes, healthcare waiting lists, and youth unemployment.

Additionally, the session involved sharp political exchanges regarding immigration and social cohesion. Barbón accused the Vox party of attempting to grow electorally “on the back of hate,” specifically regarding the discourse surrounding unaccompanied minors. He also addressed controversies involving a suspended minor center relocation, asserting that his government acted with transparency by referring potential conflicts of interest to the Prosecutor's Office.