SCECLB433 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)?

The Senedd is already almost equally made up of female and male AMs. This is an attempt to remedy a 'problem' that doesn't exist. Women do not need positive discrimination- the best person for the job should be.

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

This is an attempt to bring in 'gender self ID' by the backdoor. If ANYONE can declare themselves a woman with no checks and balances, it makes a mockery of the whole process. You could end up with a list made up of those who 'identify' as women (biological men). This is not equality.

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 Llywydd has already stated that you do not have the competence to proceed with this bill as it has implications for UK legislation. You would do well to take heed as, just as in Scotland, the UK government will step in to prevent this. It will be at great expense.

Are any unintended consequences likely to arise from the Bill?

Yes, the ludicrous situation where lists could end up with all the candidates 'identifying' as women (biological men - men are not underrepresented) with females put in a position where they are unable to complain.

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

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?

The Llywydd has already stated that this bill falls outside the Senedd's legislative competence- this alone should put a stop to it. The High Court in Scotland has stated that a man who does not hold a Gender Recognition Certificate remains a man. Self ID is not law in the UK - a man claiming to identify as a woman is a man. You will be challenged in the courts if this proceeds.

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

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