SCECLB274 Phil Cook

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 Phil Cook | Evidence from Phil Cook

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)?

Best person for the job has always been fair and gets the best person who wants to do the job. In addition by thinking of doing this you exclude half the population which is contrary to your own equality statements.

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

Your just spending public money on this process for no gain at all, if it was your own money would you do it?

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?

Yes, it excludes 50% of the population and even more as its sits within the closed list voting system which is only for those who can afford to be part of a political party, many can't afford it as they have kids to feed.

Are any unintended consequences likely to arise from the Bill?

Yes as above, also you allow well funded political parties to determine who stands not the people.

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

Very simple, its a vanity project for pretend equality so it's a waste of public money that could be used to deal with real issues, NHS, Dentists, rough sleepers, poverty, its a big list.

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?

Its is a lie, "stronger voice for people of wales" does not exist as I now understand MS/AS are only accountable to the Welsh people every 5 years, for one day by post or in person, between 7am and 10pm, during an election cycle or twice every 10 years. No referendum process is in place, no recall process is in place. This is a shame and a lie.

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

Its a power grab to take power away from the Welsh people, to kill the voice.

Do you have any views on matters related to the quality of the legislation, or to the constitutional or other implications of the Bill?

The proposal goes against your equality aims, and is based on a false belief the People of Wales have a voice, they never have and with this never will.

Are there any other issues that you would like to raise about the Bill and the accompanying Explanatory Memorandum or any related matters?

Waste of public money

Anything else?

It is not for the benefit of the welsh public, it benefits those in Power and will increase their Power only. Look with your eyes and find the facts evidence which support "Voice of people of Wales" or "accountable to the Public". I know as the Welsh Government have confirmed its once every 5 years.