The Welsh Government has published the full text of First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth’s speech, Rewiring Wales: A New Prospectus for Powers and Partnership.
Although delivered on 19 October, the speech was published officially yesterday and provides further detail about the Government’s constitutional programme.
The First Minister proposes seeking the devolution of policing and justice, rail infrastructure and the Crown Estate, alongside greater fiscal flexibility.
He also outlines plans for a council-led approach to regional collaboration, potentially resulting in a new regional governance map.
The Government intends to publish a Green Paper before the end of the current Senedd term, with the possibility of subsequent legislation.
Why it matters: The proposals could affect where decisions are taken about economic development, policing, transport and public investment. They also raise questions about the relationship between Welsh ministers, local councils and regional bodies.
Status: Policy proposals and a commitment to further consultation, not enacted constitutional changes. The speech predates yesterday’s publication and should not be presented as a new announcement made on 2 November.
