In the Senedd today, during plenary, James Evans MS called upon the Welsh Government to take into consideration the events of the past year surrounding Betsi Cadwalladr and the need to include scrutiny and accountability of members when addressing Senedd reform, most particularly through the establishment of a privileges committee.
Speaking in the Senedd, James said.
“In February 2023, the First Minister mislead the Senedd when he claimed that he and others were advised by the auditor general to take Betsi Cadwaladr out of special measures ahead of the 2021 Senedd election. It transpires that this was not the case. He lied.
Just last week, the Health Minister, Eluned Morgan told the Senedd that forensic accountants from EY consultancy were asked to look at the body's accounts "on advice from the Welsh government". However, two former senior officials of the NHS body later clarified that the government was not involved, with the Health Secretary later admitting there was no "direct conversation" on the matter. She lied.”
James Evans went on to say.
“When minister mislead politicians in other parliament the Labour benches here, call it a disgrace, corruption and that those people should be sacked. So, in Senedd reform, it is important that we look back and ensure that we improve transparency and accountability.”
“It is vital that those who mislead, hinder or prevent the work of the Senedd are held accountable for their actions.”
Further comments by James Evans MS on Senedd reform.
“The Senedd is supposed to be the beating heart of democratic governance in Wales, yet we only commit 2 full days towards plenary. I’m committed to seeing the Senedd function and complete its duty to represent the people of my constituency and that of many other MSs, but the aptitude from the Welsh Labour Government on the internal workings of the Senedd are weak and increasingly poor. This can’t go on, but I fear it will do, unless we see a change of government in Cardiff Bay. Trust is the core of any democracy; Welsh Labour are losing that trust and risk bringing the Senedd into dispute in doing so.”
