(Title Image: Llywelyn200 via Wikpiedia and under Creative Commons Licence BY-SA-4.0)
A commission appointed by Plaid Cymru to investigate the practicalities of Welsh independence published their report last week.
The report focuses on the necessary legal and political steps required to hold an independence referendum – acknowledging the potential difficulties – though doesn’t directly address many of the most commonly raised questions about independence.
Some of the conclusions also relate to the existing devolution settlement, including calls for the creation of a separate Welsh legal jurisdiction and civil service.
Other key recommendations/conclusions include:
- Further exploration of a confederal model for the UK based on Benelux (as a possible alternative to independence).
- Holding two referendums – one a multiple-choice referendum on constitutional options and a second between the status quo and the most popular option from the first referendum.
- Establishing a standing National Commission to draft a written constitution in tandem with citizens assemblies that are properly representative of the Welsh population. The constitution would include a Bill of Rights and would also be compatible with the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act 2015.
- A two-chambered Senedd; a lower chamber of up to 100 members elected by STV, with a small upper chamber (National Council) appointed by social and professional groups as a revising body.
- The question of the head of state is left open-ended, with both a republic and retention of the monarchy (with a Welsh-appointed Crown Commissioner/Governor-General) considered.
- A currency union with England isn’t ruled out, nor is a pegged currency with stated advantages and disadvantages of both (though not explored in any great detail).
- Possible tax options include a land value tax, tourist tax and electronic road pricing.
- Wales should join the EFTA as a step towards eventually rejoining the EU in the medium to long-term.
The Commission’s Chair, Elfyn Llwyd, said: “Many of our people have become aware for the first time of the positive advantages for Wales of possessing its own democratic institutions, the Senedd and Welsh Government.”
Plaid Cymru leader, Adam Price MS (Plaid, Carms. E. & Dinefwr) said: “Something is happening in Wales. Support for independence is at the highest it has ever been. Our nation is on the march and people are waking up to the idea that independence is possible.”
