In 2003 UNISON Cymru Wales provide both written and oral evidence to the Richard’s commission in favour of additional powers for the Welsh Assembly.
The extracts below provide a flavour of this evidence:
UNISON Cymru/Wales is strongly of the view that devolved arrangements in Wales should at least be on par with those in Scotland. There is no justification for a ‘more diluted’ form in Wales. Harmonisation of arrangements between the two countries, in particular, will enable Welsh Assembly Government to institute primary legislation for Wales. This would represent the single most important improvement to the existing constitution.
Although the Assembly has been able to develop some policies to reflect particular Welsh needs and aspirations, it is limited in its ability to forge radical change through its inability to initiate primary legislation. It needs to break away from its dependency on Westminster for policy making, and it is essential that legislative powers and executive powers be brought together so that Welsh citizens can clearly understand responsibilities and accountabilities between the different tiers of governance.
Devolution offers the potential for creating a new style of policymaking process – one that is modern, inclusive, participatory and integrated – and one that reflects the culture and the needs of the population being governed. The case for additional powers needs to be located and firmly grounded in a real ability to make a difference and to have distinct policies which meet the needs of Wales.
To view UNISON Cymru Wales’ written evidence go to http://www.richardcommission.gov.uk/content/evidence/written/unison/index.htm
Or for a transcript of the oral evidence go to:
http://www.richardcommission.gov.uk/content/evidence/oral/unison/index-e.htm