Sir Robert Buckland has strongly opposed the devolution of justice in Wales. A former Justice Secretary and a barrister born in Llanelli, Sir Buckland believed that it would be a mistake of “calamitous proportions” for Wales to take control of justice from Westminster. The recommendation was put forth by a commission that suggested devolving control over railways, policing, and justice to Wales. However, Buckland believed that being part of the jurisdiction of Wales and England was a good thing. He said that this would be a catastrophic step for the justice system in Wales and that it would be more beneficial for Wales to stay as one jurisdiction.
The report from the commission, which was co-chaired by former Archbishop of Canterbury Lord Williams and Cardiff University professor Laura McAllister, suggested three ways devolution could be developed: an enhanced form with more powers, a federal system with the other UK nations, and full independence. Although independence was a possibility, the commission warned that it could result in short-term and medium-term economic hardship. Buckland opposed this idea, saying that it would lead to depopulation, stagnation, and economic decline in Wales.
The commission stated that it is not within its scope to recommend a specific course of action, and it is up to politicians to decide on its suggestions. The Welsh First Minister, Mark Drakeford, has stated that the report deserves careful consideration, and the Welsh government will examine it in detail. Plaid Cymru has described the report as “groundbreaking” and believes that it spells out that independence is a genuine option for Wales. Furthermore, Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds has welcomed the report for exploring “pragmatic ways” to reform Wales’ relationship with the rest of the UK.
The topic of devolution within Wales will be explored further on Politics Wales at 10:00 GMT on BBC One Wales on Sunday. Despite the suggestions of the commission, Buckland and other politicians have made it clear that devolving justice would not be beneficial for Wales, and remaining as one jurisdiction with England would be best
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