Overview

This bill aims to devolve the management of the Crown Estate's assets in Wales to the Welsh Government. This involves transferring responsibility for managing Crown land and related rights in Wales from the UK Treasury to the Welsh Ministers, ensuring continued management on behalf of the Crown.

Description

The bill amends the Wales Act 2017 to allow the Treasury to create a scheme transferring the management of the Crown Estate in Wales to the Welsh Government (or a body nominated by them). This includes land, rights, and interests, excluding specific exceptions like those held by certain limited partnerships. The scheme will detail the transfer of assets, liabilities, and employment rights, ensuring a smooth transition. It must also address various considerations including national security, access for telecommunications, the management of oil and gas resources, and consistent electricity management across the UK. The Crown Estate Act 1961 will apply to the transferee (with modifications) to govern the management of assets in Wales going forward. The bill also amends the Civil List Act 1952 to ensure that hereditary revenues from the transferred assets are paid into the Welsh Consolidated Fund. The bill requires parliamentary approval from both Houses of Parliament and the Senedd Cymru.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to directly impact UK government spending. The transfer of management responsibility shifts the financial implications from the UK Treasury to the Welsh Government, without altering the overall revenue from the Crown Estate.

Groups Affected

• Welsh Government: Gains management responsibilities and financial benefits from Crown Estate assets in Wales.
• Crown Estate Commissioners: Loses management responsibilities for assets in Wales.
• Employees of the Crown Estate: Employment rights are protected during the transition.
• Businesses and individuals using or adjacent to Crown Estate land in Wales: May experience changes in land management and interactions with the Welsh Government.
• UK Treasury: Loses management responsibilities but retains overall revenue ownership of the Crown Estate.

Powered by nyModel