Devolution in Wales

Devolution

Devolution in Wales began with the Government of Wales Act 1998, establishing the National Assembly for Wales.

The Government of Wales Act 2006 reformed the National Assembly for Wales and introduced new law-making powers. These were expanded following a 2011 referendum, when it gained primary law-making powers in devolved areas. Further autonomy was introduced through the Wales Act 2014 and Wales Act 2017.

In 2020, the National Assembly for Wales was renamed Senedd Cymru (Welsh Parliament).

Welsh Government

The Welsh Government is the devolved government for Wales. Led by the First Minister, it works across devolved areas such as health, education and the environment.

Senedd Cymru makes laws in devolved areas, while the Welsh Government is responsible for developing policy and implementing those laws in Wales. 

Senedd Cymru

Senedd Cymru is the democratically elected parliament for Wales.

Since 2011, the Senedd has passed more than 90 laws (Acts of Senedd Cymru). Find out more about legislation in Wales.

Laws made by the Senedd apply to Wales, while laws made by the UK Parliament may apply across the UK or to specific parts, such as England and Wales or England only.

The Senedd currently has 60 members. Forty are elected from constituencies using first past the post, and 20 are regional members elected using the additional member system, a form of proportional representation.

From the May 2026 Senedd election, a new voting system will be introduced, and the Senedd will expand to 96 members representing 16 constituencies across Wales.

Current composition of Senedd Cymru:

 

Welsh Labour (29), Welsh Conservative Party (13), Plaid Cymru (13), Reform UK (2), Welsh Liberal Democrats (1), Independent (2).

Devolved vs. reserved powers

Some powers are devolved, meaning the Senedd can make laws and decisions in those areas for Wales. Other powers are reserved, meaning they remain the responsibility of the UK Parliament.

Devolved powers include: