Government of Wales Act 2006

The current devolution settlement and the powers of the National Assembly for Wales are set out in the Government of Wales Act 2006. This Act came into force in 2007 and marked a significant shift for the National Assembly in terms of both its powers and its processes.

The Act officially split the National Assembly for Wales and the Welsh Government (referred to in the Act as the Welsh Assembly Government) creating a clear distinction between the legislature (the National Assembly, the body that makes laws) and the executive (the Welsh Government, the body that makes decisions and implements policies).

The Act also gave the National Assembly primary law-making powers for the first time. Initially (between 2007 – 2011) the Assembly had the potential to make legislation in the 20 devolved areas but only if Westminster gave them permission to do so, on a case by case basis. However, the Act also contained provision for a referendum on this issue. The referendum was held and won in March 2011 and the National Assembly now has the power to make Wales – specific primary legislation in the 20 devolved areas.

The third sector and the Government of Wales Act 2006

The Act provides the third sector with significant opportunities to have their voice heard on issues that matter to them and the people they work with and represent. In order to make sound policies and laws, the Assembly needs to hear from its citizens. The third sector is uniquely placed with its front-line experience and expertise to bring forward robust evidence to influence the laws that are made. The legislative processes have created a range of opportunities to influence, for example: liaising with the relevant Minister, Assembly Member, or Committee; contributing to pre-legislative consultation; inputting to the legislative scrutiny process; and using the public petitions process. You can find out more about these processes and opportunities here.