Welsh Senedd Expansion Plan Sparks Debate Amid Operational Challenges

The Welsh Senedd, established in 1999 and formerly known as the National Assembly for Wales until 2020, is facing operational challenges due to its limited membership. Eluned Morgan, who became First Minister last month, has highlighted a critical issue: committee meetings risk becoming inquorate if a single member leaves momentarily.

To address this problem, plans are underway to expand the Senedd from 60 to 96 members. Morgan argues this increase would lead to "better scrutiny" of government actions. The Senedd, which uses both Welsh and English as official languages, currently has law-making powers over 20 devolved areas, including health and education.

"The public are clearly anxious when they see more politicians, but there is good evidence that if you have better scrutiny you can hold people to account better and the resources are better allocated."

However, the expansion proposal has met with opposition. The Welsh Conservatives criticize the plan, citing its £17.8 million annual cost and suggesting the funds could be better allocated to the National Health Service.

Alongside the membership increase, a new proportional representation electoral system is set to be introduced. This change will shift voter focus from individual politicians to political parties. The Senedd, which meets in the Richard Rogers-designed building in Cardiff Bay, currently uses the Additional Member System for elections.

The political landscape in Wales is evolving, with Reform UK emerging as a significant player. In the July general election, the party secured second place in 13 of 32 Welsh parliamentary seats, capturing 16.9% of the vote. Morgan acknowledges the challenge posed by Reform UK's potential entry into the Senedd.

Another pressing issue facing the Welsh government is the controversial 20mph speed limit policy introduced in September 2023. Morgan admits the implementation has created problems and calls for a "reset" and revision of the guidelines. The policy, which changed the default speed limit in built-up areas from 30mph to 20mph, has led to varying levels of public dissatisfaction across Wales.

Morgan notes that areas where local councils implemented more exemptions have experienced fewer complaints. She encourages a review process, stating, "We have got to have that revision and, you know, literally hundreds of people have written into their local council saying, 'How about changing this road back?'"

As the Senedd, with its public gallery and various committees for scrutinizing government policies, grapples with these challenges, it remains to be seen how the proposed changes will shape the future of Welsh governance and public opinion.