A rapidly growing Senedd petition, demanding a referendum on Welsh Government plans to expand the Welsh Parliament, is close to reaching 10,000 signatures. Spearheaded by Nanette Davies, the petition argues against adding 36 Members of the Senedd (MSs), raising concerns over the financial strain it could place on other critical areas like healthcare, education, and social services.
Davies stated: “The Senedd costs a lot of money. Local Authorities are struggling with funding… more money shouldn’t be wasted on Members of the Senedd when we need improvements to NHS, Education, and Social Care.”
The call for a referendum gained momentum on X (formerly Twitter) through a post by Welsh Conservative MS Tom Giffard, who highlighted its proximity to the 10,000-signature threshold. If achieved, the milestone could prompt the Petitions Committee to consider a debate in the Senedd Chamber, though a debate is not guaranteed.
Controversial Reforms Spark Debate
The reforms, which propose increasing the number of MSs from 60 to 96, were formally approved earlier this year. They include provisions to expand the number of Welsh Government ministers to 17, with the potential to increase this to 19. Supporters argue that this change is necessary to bolster democratic accountability, enhancing the capacity of backbenchers to scrutinize ministerial decisions. Former Welsh Government chief legal adviser Mick Antoniw commented that Welsh democracy has “grown, developed, and matured over the past 25 years.”
Plaid Cymru Leader Rhun ap Iorwerth also defended the reform, asserting it would end the democratic “short-changing” of Welsh constituents.
Financial Concerns and Opposing Views
Opposition remains steadfast among Welsh Conservatives, who argue that the funds could be better spent on essential public services rather than additional political infrastructure. According to the Welsh Government, the expansion could cost up to £17.5 million annually, about 0.07% of the Welsh budget, with an extra £12 million needed for infrastructure changes. Giffard remarked, “If Labour and Plaid think their £120m plans… are so popular, they should prove it in a referendum.”
As signatures approach the critical mark, the petition continues to underscore the divides on Welsh political priorities, as constituents voice concerns about spending amidst increasing demands for local public services.
