Presiding Officer responds to Assembly debate on the “Future of Devolution in Wales”

Published 21/10/2014   |   Last Updated 09/06/2015

The National Assembly for Wales unanimously agreed a motion setting out its priorities for the future of devolution in Wales this afternoon (21 October).

The cross party motion set out nine points where all four parties in the Assembly are in agreement.

Speaking following the debate Dame Rosemary Butler said:

"The Assembly has spoken with one voice today, setting out its priorities for the future of devolution in Wales.

"This cross-party motion sets out clear priorities.  I now expect the UK Government to deliver on its promise to put Wales at the heart of the UK's devolution debate.

"It is time for the Assembly to be recognised as a permanent legislature with the right powers, capacity and status to deliver what the people of Wales now expect.

"I will continue to press for those changes I believe the Assembly needs - including increasing capacity, a move to reserved powers, and recognising the sovereignty of the Assembly as vital first steps to ensuring that the Assembly and the Government deliver for the people of Wales.

"I will continue to play my part. As Presiding Officer and Chair of the Assembly, I will champion the interests and view of the Assembly.  I will be meeting with the Secretary of State for Wales in the coming weeks and look forward to discussing these issues with him.  I will also continue my dialogue with the First Minister to ensure we achieve the devolution settlement we need."