The emergence of contemporary Welsh law and the implications for the property market
It was inevitable that following devolution of powers to the
Welsh Government, there would develop a body of Welsh laws akin to
those found in Scotland.
Although not yet on the same footing as Scotland the legislative
powers of Wales were bound to create a legislative book in addition
to and separate from that in England.
So what are the existing
differences between English and Welsh law, are they set to increase
and what does this mean for the property industry operating within
the Principality’s borders?
This article covers the Government
of Wales Acts of 1998 and 2006 which set up and then
strengthened the devolution by providing for separation
of the former National Assembly for Wales into two distinct
bodies.
- The National Assembly for Wales
- The Welsh Government
The National Assembly for Wales
Commission was also established under the 2006 Act and owns
property holdings, provides staff and runs support services.
Although the Welsh Government
is keen to avoid legislative confusion and understandably sees no
benefit in creating a completely separate legal system, the way
Wales is now statutorily governed will mean that new systems and
policies are inevitable.
In June last year, the Welsh
Government, a coalition of Labour and Plaid Cymru, issued their
policy roadmap for the current four year term, known as the One
Wales Agenda.
It is ambitious and dynamic in its
approach and is evidence of the Welsh Government’s intention to use
its devolved powers to maximum effect. We will therefore see
over the next few years, the Welsh Government looking to legislate
on matters of national importance to the Principality, with
particular themes of economic and sustainable development at the
fore.
Download the
full article and read about the implications this will have for the
property market (24 KB PDF)