SCECLB386 David Smith

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 David Smith | Evidence from David Smith

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)?

No. The best candidates should be eligible regardless of gender, age race, religion, or any other factor.

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

There should be no bill

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?

There should be no bill

Are any unintended consequences likely to arise from the Bill?

Yes, weaker candidates will be elected

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

N/A

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?

No idea.

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

Yes. They are making decisions not voted for by the people - for example 20mph speed limit, tax on second homes.

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

See previous

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

Just gender trumping the best candidate for the job

Anything else?

Yes! The second home tax penalty is outrageous and has ruined the Welsh property market. Also, the 20mph speed limit is unwanted and ridiculous. Minimum pricing for alcohol is penalising the poorer and again not what the electorate asked for.