Leighton Andrews, Minister for Public Services
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
There are 9 electoral reviews which have been completed by the Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales during their most recent cycle of reviews. These relate to the counties of Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Gwynedd, Monmouthshire, Pembrokeshire, Powys and Torfaen.
The Welsh Government’s programme of reforming local government has meant the Commission has suspended its ongoing review programme in anticipation of further directions for initial reviews of proposed new areas. I am therefore mindful that the electoral reviews that have been completed only relate to 9 out of the 22 Local Authorities and would only be applicable for the local government elections in 2017, and have effect only for a 3 year period.
I have therefore decided not to make Orders to implement the outstanding electoral reviews in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Conwy, Denbighshire, Gwynedd, Monmouthshire, Pembrokeshire, Powys and Torfaen prior to the 2017 local elections. I will consider the outstanding review for Powys in advance of the local elections due to be held in that county in 2020.
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.