(Title Image: Cardiff University)
The Senedd’s External Affairs Committee published a short report (pdf) in which they called for the role the Senedd and Welsh Government plays in future trade agreements to be strengthened.
The report concludes that while there’s a memorandum of understanding between the devolved government and the UK Government on their respective roles in future trade agreements, early engagement by Wales was needed when new trade deals are proposed.
The Committee also considered two options for Wales at the end of trade deal negotiations – a formal “veto”, or a “softer” guarantee that the Senedd can express a view to inform decisions on and trade deal.
The Committee recommended that in situations where the Welsh Government is involved in a trade agreement process which could impact devolved policy areas or constrains the Senedd’s powers, they seek the Senedd’s consent.
