The Government of Wales Act 2006
One of the most important Acts in Wales since the Act of Union came into force on 9th May. Mr David Lambert (Diocese of Llandaff), Research Fellow in Public Law in Cardiff Law School, advised the GB of the implications for the Church of the legislation contained within the Government of Wales Act 2006.
The National Assembly will now be able to make laws within various ‘Fields’ which can make the same provisions as Acts of the United Kingdom Parliament. Enabling powers - called ‘Matters’ - to make these laws will be given by Parliament. The Assembly will not only be able to make laws which are different to laws contained in Acts of Parliament, but also to disapply Acts which would otherwise contradict the Assembly’s laws, or amend or add to such Acts. The extent of the Fields show that the impact of Assembly laws will have considerable effect on many aspects of daily life in Wales. Among bodies that will be particularly affected will be the Churches.
Particular Fields, for example rural development, ancient monuments and historic buildings, education and training, and tourism, gives an ‘extraordinary opportunity’ for the Church to really influence proposed legislation, Mr Lambert emphasised. The Church in Wales is able to propose areas for legislation, talk to Assembly members, and make representation at standing committee stages. The Church must take the initiative in setting up processes for influencing the Assembly, and stop laws it thinks unacceptable and unreasonable. From May 9th we will have a brand new Assembly with a brand new Act and a brand new written Constitution for Wales. “The Assembly needs help to draft legislation. We have as the Church so much knowledge in so many fields. If we don’t help, I fear the consequences—and we would only have ourselves to blame.”