Local Government and the Welsh Government
Local government plays a central role in the governance of Wales and commissions and delivers a vast range of vital frontline public services. Local government’s partnership with the Welsh Government has therefore been a key feature of Welsh devolution since 1999.
The partnership between local government and the Welsh Government has been demonstrated with the signing of ‘A New Understanding’ in November 2009. ‘A New Understanding’ builds on the statutory partnership which was enshrined in the Government of Wales Acts of 1998 and 2006, which places local government at the heart of the Welsh devolution settlement. A statutory Partnership Scheme governs formal relationships between local government and the Welsh Government and representatives of local government and the Welsh Government meet three times a year through the statutory Partnership Council. Ongoing business is conducted through regular bilateral meetings between the WLGA leader and/or WLGA Spokespersons and Welsh Ministers.
Partnership Council for Wales
The Partnership Council for Wales is intended to promote joint working and co-operation between the Assembly Government and local government. Section 72 of the Government of Wales Act 2006 requires Welsh Ministers to establish and maintain a body known as the Partnership Council for Wales. The following bodies are represented:
- County Councils and County Borough Councils;
- Community and Town Councils;
- National Park Authorities;
- Police Authorities;
- Fire and Rescue Authorities.
The Partnership Council meets approximately three times a year.
Local Government Partnership Scheme: 2008
The Local Government Partnership Scheme requires the Welsh Government to consider the interests of local government in all aspects of its work. In determining what should be included in the local government scheme, the Welsh Ministers must take into consideration any advice which has been given, and any representations which have been made to them by the Partnership Council for Wales.
A New Understanding: 2009
This document sets out a new understanding between the Welsh Government and local government in Wales. This understanding is based on our mutual:
- interest in serving the citizen excellently;
- respect for the political aims and accountabilities of our respective organisations, the practical aspects of policy development and service delivery that face us both; and trust in our commitment, capacity and capability to deliver for the citizens of Wales.
For more information contact: Lorraine D'Agnilli