The Welsh parliament, Senedd, will increase its members from 60 to 96 after the next Welsh election in 2026. The move was recently backed by most Members of the Senedd (MSs) and will make Senedd a competent parliament, even if Wales decides to become independent. Presiding officer Elin Jones confirmed that the reforms were significant and long-awaited. She noted that the move corrected the mistake of 1999, whereby the assembly had too few members. Wales has waited this long to rectify the issue and take the next step towards making the parliament fit for purpose. Jones believes it will remain that way over the next century regardless of the Senedd’s future.
Jones also shared her thoughts on the Suspended Senedd politician Rhys ab Owen, who was investigated and barred for six weeks because he inappropriately touched and cursed two women while under the influence in June 2021. Jones agreed that the case had prompted reflection on whether the current system of dealing with such cases was working or needed reform. She acknowledged the complaints system was not perfect and needed more work. Although the Senedd has taken the matter seriously, the procedures may need more enhancements to offer a fairer approach to handling such complaints.
This move comes in the same week that the parliament celebrates the milestone of its 25th anniversary. The increase in the number of Senedd politicians from 60 to 96 is a testament to the progress the parliament has made within this period. It is a step towards ensuring more people are represented in Wales, giving a larger group a voice in decision-making.
However, the Conservatives opposed the vote, citing it as a way to increase the cost of politics. Despite this view, the expansion of the Senedd remains a remarkable step in securing Wales’s position in future devolution discussions and a step that will strengthen the parliamentary democracy in Wales
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