The National Assembly for Wales and the Welsh Assembly Government

  • If you live in Wales, in addition to your MP, you will elect Assembly Members (AMs) to the National Assembly for Wales.
  • The National Assembly for Wales was created in 1999 and has the power to make policy decisions and develop the funding and spending frameworks on various issues in Wales, including health, social care and education.
  • The National Assembly for Wales does not have the power to change or create legislation, but it can have involvement in shaping legislation in Westminster to ensure it reflects the needs of the people of Wales.
  • It also has the power to interpret law and direct the actions of local authorities in Wales and national agencies, such as Estyn and the Social Care Inspectorate for Wales. For example, if UK law permits local authorities to charge for certain services, the Welsh Assembly Government can give guidance on how they should do this.
  • There are some issues which still fall under the control of Westminster. These include law and order, benefits and disability discrimination. If you are campaigning in these areas you should contact your MP.

Assembly Members (AMs)

  • The National Assembly for Wales is based in Cardiff Bay and is made up of 60 AMs, elected by the people of Wales.
  • Each voter has two votes. The first is used to elect their constituency AM on a first past the post basis.
  • The second vote is used to elect 20 additional AMs, on a regional basis. These are elected by a proportional representation system, so the number of regional AMs in the Assembly reflects the number of votes their party receives.
  • There are 40 constituencies, and 40 constituency AMs. There are five electoral regions, with four regional AMs elected within each.
  • AMs elect a First Minister, responsible for the business and decisions of the Assembly. Once elected, the First Minister appoints a Cabinet of ministers, who each have responsibility for a particular area of policy.
  • Committees of AMs reflect each area of cabinet responsibility, standing committees reflect the Assemblys key priorities and four regional committees advise the Assembly on regional issues and the work of public agencies in the regions.

Who is my AM?

You can find out the names and contact details for your AMs by contacting the Welsh Assembly public information line (029 2089 8200) or by visiting www.wales.gov.uk

A new Government of Wales Bill is expected to go through Parliament in Westminster. If the proposals within the Bill are approved, the Welsh Assembly Government will have greater powers and will be able to change certain legislation through a fast track system in Westminster. For an update contact the Welsh Assembly public information line (029 2089 8200) or visit www.wales.gov.uk