Andrew RT Davies AM, Leader of the Welsh Conservative Group in the National Assembly for Wales, today called for the institution to be renamed the Welsh Parliament.
Established with limited powers in 1999, the National Assembly gained enhanced primary law-making powers in last year’s referendum.
Mr Davies said:
“By voting for full law-making powers last year the people of Wales made their National Assembly a parliament in all but name.
“It’s now time to reward their faith in our institution and acknowledge that where laws are made – the title of a parliament should exist.
“This is a common-sense move.
“It would provide far greater clarity over the distinction between the Assembly – as it is currently named – and the Welsh Government, and it would give our devolved institution its rightful place alongside other national legislatures.
“As we drive forward it is crucially important that we embrace what we now have. Put simply – a parliament.
“No expensive rebrand, new building or more politicians are required. This is simply recognition of the maturity of the devolution process.
“Some may say this is just a name change. I say there is a lot in a name.”
Mr Davies made the call during the 2012 Eisteddfod and went on to explain his decision further:
“During the National Eisteddfod – and the weeks to follow – it is absolutely appropriate to consider formally establishing the first Welsh Parliament to sit since late mediaeval times.
“This is our flagship cultural event and nothing represents our pride and identity more than last year’s referendum result.
“I remain a convinced unionist, proud of a strong Wales in a strong union of four nations, but I believe it is time for Wales’ devolved institution to develop further.
“In the referendum campaign, Labour Ministers in the Welsh Government asked for the tools to do the job. With a clearer distinction between the Parliament and the Government, Welsh Ministers can have no excuses for failing to deliver for Wales.”
