The Leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Assembly has accused the Welsh government of ‘disregarding the democratic process’, following the emergence of major changes to the NHS and local government during the summer recess.
Andrew RT Davies has written to the Presiding Officer, highlighting the need for proper scrutiny of such developments within the Senedd.
Proposals for public service reform and use of the private sector within the NHS have both been unveiled over the past seven days.
Mr Davies said:
“The Assembly chamber is there for a very good reason – to debate and scrutinise.
“When hugely significant developments like these are being disclosed during the recess period, the whole process becomes a farce.
“These are extremely sensitive issues that impact upon the whole of Wales.
“Where is the debate that the Minister promised on local government collaboration?
“Where is the opportunity to discuss the use of the private sector in the NHS – and clear up Labour’s ridiculously muddled stance on it?
“Whatever views are held on these changes – the National Assembly should be afforded the courtesy and opportunity to perform its scrutiny function.
“Transparency has been called into question and the government needs to be extremely careful over the way it announces or reveals such important developments.”
