Jeremy Miles, AM, Counsel General and Brexit Minister
This was published under the 2016 to 2021 administration of the Welsh Government
The European Union (Withdrawal) Act requires the UK Government to report to Parliament periodically on matters relating to Common Frameworks and the use if any made by the UK Government of powers under section 12 of the Act (the so-called ‘freezing powers’) temporarily to maintain existing EU law limits on devolved competence.
I am notifying Members that the fifth such report was laid in Parliament on 17 October.
While much positive work continues on Frameworks, we are concerned at indications that the current UK Government is intent on moving away from regulatory alignment with the EU on so-called level playing field issues (e.g. state aid, competition policy, environmental standards, labour market and social protection legislation). I have tasked officials to consider the potential impact of regulatory divergence on the Common Frameworks process.
This statement is being issued during recess in order to keep members informed. Should members wish me to make a further statement or to answer questions on this when the Assembly returns I would be happy to do so