SCECLB43 Sandra Reynolds

Senedd Cymru | Welsh Parliament

Y Pwyllgor Biliau Diwygio | Reform Bill Committee

Bil Senedd Cymru (Rhestrau Ymgeiswyr Etholiadol)| Senedd Cymru (Electoral Candidate Lists) Bill

Ymateb gan Sandra Reynolds | Evidence from Sandra Reynolds

What are your views on the general principles of the Bill and the need for legislation to deliver the Welsh Government’s stated policy objective (to make the Senedd a more effective legislature by ensuring it is broadly representative of the gender make-up of the population)?

Politicians should be chosen on merit not as a result of quota's. I am opposed to any form of discrimination. Skin colour and sex are not the basis for choosing a politician. Ability is.

What are your views on the system of enforcement and potential sanctions for non-compliance proposed in the Bill?

If a man can just say he is a woman then this becomes nonsensical. Biological sex should be the criteria if you want more women. Personally I care not whether male or female as long as they are honest and intelligent (qualities sadly lacking in some of the existing members).

Are there any potential barriers to the implementation of the Bill’s provisions? If so, what are they, and are they adequately taken into account in the Bill and the accompanying Explanatory Memorandum and Regulatory Impact Assessment?

The people of Wales do not want it. that should be barrier enough.

Are any unintended consequences likely to arise from the Bill?

It could end up excluding women altogether if men can self id as female.

What are your views on the Welsh Government’s assessment of the financial and other impacts of the Bill?

My views on the Welsh Government are virtually unprintable. I am ashamed of the Senedd which has presided over the ridiculous 20mph mandate, has seen a higher % of kids in relative poverty than England, disastrous outcomes in education and worse results in cancer outcomes. Longer NHS waiting lists and the worst rail service in the UK. It has wasted millions on planting trees in Uganda as a virtue signalling exercise whilst cutting down trees on Welsh farmland.

What are your views on the balance between the information contained on the face of the Bill and what is left to subordinate legislation? Are the powers for Welsh Ministers to make subordinate legislation appropriate?

Do you have any views on matters relating to the legislative competence of the Senedd including compatibility with the European Convention on Human Rights?

We should leave the ECHR. It is not fit for purpose in 2024.