Westminster Power Grab Seen as Affront to Devolution by Senedd Members
Senedd Members criticize Westminster’s plans to legislate in devolved areas, calling it an affront to Welsh governance and autonomy.
Wales, Westminster, Senedd, Alun Davies, Rebecca Evans, Adam Price
Cardiff: Senedd Members are upset about a “power grab” from Westminster. They say UK ministers want to make laws in areas already devolved to Wales. This move is seen as an affront to Welsh governance.
The legislation committee is worried about a new data use bill. This bill would give UK ministers powers in areas that should be managed by Wales. Labour’s Alun Davies argues that it would replace Welsh regulations with English ones.
Davies warns that if UK ministers can make decisions without Welsh consent, it undermines the devolution settlement. He believes that consultation often means little in practice.
During a recent committee meeting, Davies expressed confusion over the Welsh Government’s approach. He feels they are losing powers by relying on UK legislation.
He questioned the Welsh Government’s policy objectives and why they would accept such impositions from Westminster. Economy Secretary Rebecca Evans stated they are in discussions with the UK Government on these key issues.
Davies called for the Welsh Government to legislate independently. He believes this creates confusion over powers between Wales and England. Evans responded that they are collaborating, not being acted upon.
Davies noted that the new UK Government had promised to extend powers to the Senedd. However, he feels those promises have not been fulfilled, as powers are being taken away instead.
He expressed discomfort with the idea of Welsh ministers being overruled on devolved matters. Former Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price echoed these concerns, asking if Wales is on a slippery slope back to central control.
Price pressed Evans on whether she supports the Senedd consenting to the bill. She said she couldn’t recommend anything until talks with UK ministers conclude.
Labour’s Mike Hedges questioned why constitutional concerns remain unaddressed since the UK Government changed. Evans acknowledged that some issues from the previous bill have been resolved, but ongoing discussions are still needed.
Senedd Members will vote on the bill under the legislative consent motion process. While the Sewel convention suggests the UK Parliament should not legislate on devolved matters without consent, it is not legally binding.