Welsh government extends number of Senedd Members

Reforms to "strengthen democracy" in Wales were passed into law yesterday (24 June) with the Senedd Cymru Act gaining Royal Assent.

The landmark legislation, which was passed by a supermajority of Members of the Senedd in May, was passed in the hope of creating a modern, more effective Welsh Parliament to serve and represent people in Wales.

Under the new law, the Senedd will gain increased capacity to scrutinise policies, laws, spending plans, and hold the Welsh Government to account.

First minister Vaughan Gething said: "This is an historic moment for democracy in Wales. During 25 years of Welsh devolution the Senedd gained greater responsibilities, including law-making and tax-varying powers, but its capacity did not keep pace and that had to change."

Key changes to be implemented in time for the 2026 Senedd elections include shifting the number of Senedd Members from 60 to 96, elected using a fully proportional, closed list system, as well as a move to having 16 constituencies.

Also, Senedd elections will be held every four years from 2026 onwards. All candidates to, and Members of, the Senedd will need to be resident in Wales.

There are also commitments to review the changes brought in by the Act after the 2026 election, and to consider the practical and legislative implications of job-sharing offices related to the Senedd.

Counsel General Mick Antoniw said: "Wales is currently the most under-represented country in the UK. This landmark legislation will strengthen our democracy to better serve people in Wales, both in the Senedd and in our local communities across Wales."