Overview

This bill proposes a referendum in Wales by December 31st, 2024, asking whether the Senedd (Welsh Parliament) and Welsh Government should be abolished. If passed, no further such referendum can be held for 25 years.

Description

This bill mandates a referendum on the future of devolution in Wales. The question on the ballot will be whether to keep or abolish the Senedd and Welsh Government. The referendum must be held no later than December 31st, 2024. The Electoral Commission will provide recommendations on the referendum's conduct, and the Secretary of State will implement these recommendations through regulations approved by Parliament. Crucially, the bill includes a 25-year moratorium on any further referendums on this issue.

Government Spending

The bill states that all costs associated with the referendum, and any increased spending resulting from the Act under other legislation, will be met from public funds provided by Parliament. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

The groups primarily affected are:

• The people of Wales: They will vote in the referendum, directly deciding the future of their devolved government.
• The Senedd and Welsh Government: Their continued existence depends on the referendum's outcome.
• UK Government: Responsible for organizing the referendum and managing any resulting changes.
• Electoral Commission: Responsible for providing guidance on conducting a fair and transparent referendum.

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