Local government is one of the main service deliverers in Wales and accounts for half of the National Assembly’s budget. It is therefore essential that relations between local government and the National Assembly are effective in order to ensure efficient public services and positive governance.
There is a statutory partnership scheme between the National Assembly for Wales and local government for collaboration and consultation. The Government of Wales Act 1998 requires the Assembly to adopt a scheme for a partnership with local government. This gives due recognition to local government’s representational and community leadership role and acknowledges local government as a partner of the National Assembly rather than a service delivery agent. This is embodied in the Partnership Council, an advisory body of 26 members drawn from the Assembly and local government. It promotes joint working and co-operation and informed policy development.
Most local government related policies or service delivery responsibilities, from education to planning, from social services to housing, are devolved to the National Assembly.
The Welsh Assembly Government therefore sets the national priorities, strategic context and overall level of funding for services. Local government retains a significant degree of autonomy and flexibility as the majority of local government funding is non-hypothecated (i.e. not ringfenced for any specific service area), which allows local authorities to respond to local needs and reflect local priorities.
There remain some areas, such as the council tax system, benefits, trading standards and police which remain UK Government responsibilities. However, it is anticipated that with further devolution following the second Government of Wales Act that the Welsh Assembly Government will gain more powers over wider local government roles and responsibilities.