The independent Remuneration Board of the National Assembly for Wales has issued a third consultation on a series of proposals to amend its Determination following its review of staffing support for Assembly Members.
The consultation document outlines proposals to remove the ability of Assembly Members to fund the employment of family members from the Remuneration Board's Determination as well as changes to Assembly Member support staff terms and conditions.
The proposals issued by the Board for consultation are as follows:
- A proposal to remove, from the next dissolution of the Assembly which is likely to be in April 2021, the funding for Assembly Members to employ family members and partners;
- A proposal to remove, from 1 April 2019, the funding for any new family members appointed (or promoted or have changes made to their current contract) after 24 October 2018.
- Proposals to introduce privilege days and a new compassionate leave policy for support staff as well as adjusting support staff salaries in the April of each by the change in the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (similar to the annual change for Assembly Members).
In addition to the proposals outlined, the Board has also agreed to consult on changes to the support staff Disciplinary Procedure and Grievance Procedure as result of the Assembly's adoption of the new Dignity and Respect policy.
The Board has previously issued two consultations arising from its review which has introduced more flexibility into the way Assembly Members and party groups are able to spend their staffing allowances.
The full consultation document which sets out the details and reasons for the Board's proposals. The consultation closes on Thursday 13 December 2018. The Board will take a final decision on the proposals in the new year.