LDBCW responds to Government White Paper
The Welsh Government White Paper on Electoral administration and reform, published 11 October 2022 includes several proposals for change to the role and function of the Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales.
Changes to the way the Commission carries out engagement with the public, and adjustments to the decision-making process for Reviews are among the recommendations.
Also included in the White Paper is the proposal to dissolve the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales and to transfer its functions to the Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales.
Responding to the Welsh Government White Paper, Chair of the Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales, Bev Smith said:
“The Commission welcomes the Government’s White Paper and looks forward to engaging with Ministers and other partners as discussions continue on future changes to the role and function of the Commission.
“Including eligible voters as mandatory consultees on the Commission’s Reviews supports the Commission's belief that public engagement is vital to the success of Reviews, not only because eligible voters are the people most affected by changes to local electoral arrangements, but because they also have the best local knowledge which is crucial to the development of good proposals.
“The proposed changes to the decision-making process reflect the need for clarity for the public and our local government partners and will help to ensure that Reviews are carried out to completion in a timely manner.
“The Commission prides itself both on its strong relationship with local government partners and on its independence and impartiality and notes with interest the proposal that the functions of the Independent Remuneration Panel for Wales should be transferred to its care, dependent on agreement from the Senedd.”
- The Welsh Government White Paper is available here: Electoral administration and reform White Paper | GOV.WALES