The emergence of contemporary Welsh law and the implications for the property market
It was inevitable that following devolution of powers to the
Welsh Assembly 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 Assembly 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 Assembly 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 Assembly 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 Assembly Government’s intention to use its devolved
powers to maximum effect. We will therefore see over the next
few years, the Welsh Assembly 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)
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