SCECLB282 Individual

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 Unigolyn | Evidence from Individual

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)?

I think the principles are flawed as biological sex and not gender are what should be guiding our policy making. This legislation is not needed and could actually cause harm to women and girls.

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

It genuinely horrifies me. It will open the door for more gender based policy changes. I fear that being more comfortable with biological sex safe spaces, that will become obsolete, which is distressing for those of us that need them, will result in an accusation of bigotry.

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?

I do not have confidence that any impact assessment will be carried out correctly and consider the impact on women and girls with equal parity with the communities that support self ID. Examples in Scotland demonstrate that priority is given to LGBTQIA voices and marginalise others during consultations of this nature.

Are any unintended consequences likely to arise from the Bill?

Yes. A lack of trust in the Welsh government, for not sticking up for women. A fear for women and girls that none of their needs matter.

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

I don't feel informed enough about the finacial impacts to offer an opinion.

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?

The bill feels wooly, which could create more harm than dropping the bill altogether.

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

I don't think Wales should be prioritising one group over another. Solutions should work for everyone and this bill is wooly and yet high handed.

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

I think this sort of bill will open the door for sex being replaced with gender as a determining factor when sex matters much much more.