Government Response - The Individual Candidate Election Expenses (Senedd Elections) Code of Practice 2025

The Welsh Government notes the reporting points and provides the following response in relation to each of the points raised:

Whilst the Welsh Government accepts that there remain some inconsistencies, it is considered that these do not materially impact the Code. 

The Electoral Commission has also confirmed that the points raised do not have any impact on the overall effect or application of the Code.  The points raised would not mislead readers of the Code and no further definitions are required.

The Electoral Commission is not bound to draft in accordance with Writing Laws for Wales and will draft in a way which ensures consistency with other documents/guidance they produce. 

Amending the Code to deal with the inconsistencies would require it to be withdrawn and relayed for a further 40 days.  It is considered that any further delay would have a detrimental impact on stakeholders.

The Electoral Commission’s main objective is for the Codes to come into force as soon as possible to avoid any further impact on stakeholders, particularly since the Codes have already been delayed beyond the start of the regulated period. 

However, the inconsistencies raised will be noted and addressed at the next appropriate opportunity.