Written Statement: Independent Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales – broad objectives

Further to my Oral Statement this afternoon, I am sharing the broad objectives of the Independent Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales, below.

The Independent Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales

The Commission has two broad objectives:

1. To consider and develop options for fundamental reform of the constitutional structures of the United Kingdom, in which Wales remains an integral part;
2. To consider and develop all progressive principal options to strengthen Welsh democracy and deliver improvements for the people of Wales.

Working Practices

The Commission will be co-chaired by Professor Laura McAllister and Dr Rowan Williams.  Including the co-chairs, the Commission will comprise 11 members drawn from a broad range of political opinion and sections of Welsh society.  The Commission will be supported in its work by a Secretariat and a Panel of Experts.

In carrying out its work the Commission should develop a programme of inclusive engagement with civic society and the Welsh public to stimulate a national conversation; and commission research, analysis and expert opinion through a Panel of Experts established for this purpose.

Timetable

The Commission should produce an interim report by the end of 2022. 

It should produce a full report with recommendations by the end of 2023.