Commenting on this year's GCSE results, Wales Secretary David Evans said:

"We have seen the best ever GCSE results here in Wales and we have to applaud the success of our students built upon their honest endeavour and the dedication and commitment of their teachers.

"Schools throughout Wales can rightly feel proud of their achievements whilst the Assembly Government should now take stock of the results and consider how we can build for even greater success in the future.
"Chief amongst their priorities must be the funding problems that still exist here in Wales. Our pupil's results have risen despite the inadequate levels of funding that sees a Welsh student have, on average, £527 less spent per year on their education when compared to those in England. In a 1000 pupil comprehensive school that will equate to more than £500,000 for just one academic year. Ask any Headteacher or Governing Body what they could do with that sort of money and they will identify investment in classrooms and school buildings, reduced class sizes, improved resources, greater curriculum choice, more teachers and classroom assistants. With the right opportunity and the appropriate budget the results would soar.

"We are pleased that the Assembly has pledged to close the gap in funding but schools have yet to see any additional money. We hope that this years GCSE results are received as a clear indication of the potential we have amongst young learners here in Wales and the desire that they and their teachers have to succeed. We have to ensure that they fulfil their potential and that means ensuring that they are not short changed."