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Welsh Devolution
12 December 2023
Lead MP
Rob Roberts
Responding Minister
Fay Jones
Tags
EconomyTaxationWales
Word Count: 5049
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Rob Roberts raised concerns about welsh devolution in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
Mr. Roberts called on the government to allow for a referendum on the continuation of Welsh devolution and asked what positive outcomes and benefits it has brought that would otherwise not have been possible. He also questioned why Wales cannot have another referendum like those in Scotland (2014) and the UK (2016), particularly since devolution was never explicitly supported by the majority of the population.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Mr. Roberts expressed significant concerns about the effectiveness of Welsh devolution over the past 25 years, noting that Wales has fallen behind other parts of the UK in nearly all policy areas and has experienced declining voter turnout for elections. He cited examples from health, education, and housing to illustrate the perceived failures of devolved governance. The cost of maintaining the Senedd and its operations was highlighted as a concern, with Roberts questioning whether the financial investment had led to tangible improvements.
Jonathan Lord
Con
Delyn
Asked the Minister for an assurance that further powers will not be given to a Welsh Administration until there is proven public support and the existing powers are worthy of.
Government Response
Fay Jones
Government Response
Congratulated the hon. Member for Delyn on securing the debate, highlighting progress made by the UK Conservative Government in Wales including four towns funds, city and regional growth deals, £1 billion for north Wales main line electrification, specific government investment in all local authorities, backing Welsh business and economy, delivering a better future for communities. Emphasized commitment to devolution through successive Conservative Governments' actions such as delivering full lawmaking powers referenda, two Wales Acts, tax and borrowing powers, transforming the National Assembly into the Welsh Parliament. Stressed the need for focusing on economic growth rather than extra devolution or creating more Senedd Members, citing cost concerns. Acknowledged legitimate concerns about public service performance but noted support for devolution from people in Wales through referenda outcomes. Highlighted issues like PISA results and mentioned specific examples of unproductive spending by the Welsh Labour Government.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.