The Welsh Quest for a Different Model of Governance

Between the now more remote prospect of a second referendum on Scotland’s independence and Sinn Fein’s claim for a reunification of the two Irelands, one might wonder where Wales stands. Under the Wales Act 2017, the evolution from a conferred-powers model to a reserved-powers model and the transition from an Assembly to a Welsh parliament – or Senedd Cymru – have granted Wales more independence from Westminster. An emboldened, resolutely devolutionist Wales is now working on its own model of governance as a possible alternative to the Westminster model. This is part of a constitution-building process not only for the Welsh people but also as a viable solution to the fragmented British Union. To this effect, a Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales was set up in 2021. While its remit includes examining all options for Wales, including independence, its May 2022 progress report clearly stated that “Wales remains an integral part of the United Kingdom”. The Welsh model of governance could serve as a source of inspiration for England.