Commons Sense

House of Commons · Ministers' Questions

Devolution Settlement

Wednesday 19 April 2023 · 2 questions

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Answered 1 Partly answered 1 Not answered 0

Key points

  • Rob Roberts questioned the adequacy of the devolution settlement for Wales during Ministerial Questions.
  • Rob Roberts inquired about the reasons for expanding Senedd membership by 60 percent and the associated costs.
  • The Secretary of State for Wales expressed agreement that additional funding would be better spent on public services rather than expanding Senedd membership.

Topics (select to filter)

Questions & Answers

Q1 Rob Roberts
Wales
Context

The question arises from discussions about how the current devolution arrangement operates in practice and whether it adequately serves people in Wales.

Question

What recent discussions have been had with the First Minister of Wales on the adequacy of the operation of the devolution settlement for people in Wales?

Answer from James Davies

The Secretary of State for Wales has regular discussions with the First Minister on how our two Governments can work together within the current devolution settlement to deliver for Wales. Our recent agreement to establish two Welsh freeports shows what we can achieve when we work together for the benefit of people and communities in Wales.

Partly answered

Not addressed: The answer does not provide details about specific discussions on the adequacy of the devolution settlement.

How: Changed Subject

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Q2 Rob Roberts
Wales
Context

Concerns arise over proposed expansion of Senedd membership by 60%, citing inefficiencies and costs. Reports suggest the First Minister may not be truthful in his answers.

Question

Given that the Senedd sits for only two days a week and if yesterday's reports are anything to go by, the First Minister is less than truthful with his answers anyway, can my hon. Friend fathom any reason why they need to expand Senedd membership by 60%, at huge cost to the Welsh taxpayer? Does he agree that the Welsh people should be asked whether they want more MSs working only two days a week?

Answer from James Davies

The hon. Member is right to ask that question. I fully agree with him that the last thing people in Wales want is more politicians in Cardiff bay. The Welsh Government would be better spending the estimated £100 million that they suppose this would cost on public services. If the Welsh Government and their separatist allies are so confident that these proposals should progress, then I agree that they should seek the agreement of people in Wales through a referendum.

Answered
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