An expert group commissioned to assess the future governance of Wales has concluded that Welsh independence is a "viable" option. However, the report emphasizes that if Wales were to
leave the UK, it would face a "significant" short to medium-term challenge in generating enough tax revenue for public services. The commission also highlights the feasibility of transferring more powers from Westminster and creating a federal UK. Additionally, the report advocates for Wales to have full control of its rail network to improve services and cost-effectiveness.
The Independent Commission on the Constitutional Future of Wales, established by the Welsh government in 2021, believes that the current political arrangements in Wales are unsustainable and lack stability and prosperity. The report's options, including enhanced devolution, a federal UK, and independence, require UK government involvement. The commission calls for a balanced approach, weighing the risks and opportunities of each option.
While Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford, Plaid Cymru, and the Liberal Democrats welcomed the report, the Welsh Conservatives criticized it as "navel-gazing." The commission recommends immediate changes, such as devolving powers over justice, policing, and rail infrastructure to the Senedd, removing constraints on Welsh government finances, and making the Sewel Convention legally binding. The report aims to contribute to future constitutional discussions between the Welsh and UK governments. Photo by Elliott Brown from Birmingham, United Kingdom, Wikimedia commons.