‘Inappropriate’ to give Llywydd discretion over groups, says MS

A PROPOSAL to change the rules about forming party groups at the Senedd would risk dragging the Presiding Officer into political controversy, it has been claimed.

Earlier this week the Business Committee decided on a split vote to back a plan that would see the Presiding Officer – known as the Llywydd – given discretion over whether groups would be recognised.

Formal party groups attract public funding for their staff and have guaranteed speaking slots and the ability to call for debates.

Currently groups can be formed when three or more MSs join them.

Under the proposed change, the minimum number would rise to four – and members of a party group would have to have been elected under its name to the Senedd – unless the Llywydd decides an exception can be made because there has been “a national crisis or major event that changes group affiliations”.

South Wales East MS Mark Reckless, who has changed his affiliation several times and currently represents the Abolish the Welsh Assembly Party, has written to Llywydd Elin Jones objecting to the proposed changes, which are backed by Labour and Plaid Cymru.

In the letter he states: “I believe that it is inappropriate to give the office of Llywydd such wide discretion, exercise of which would inevitably draw its holder into party political controversy.”

A Senedd Commission spokeswoman said: “A proposal to amend the Standing Order has been made and is supported by a majority of its members.

“The committee is now consulting with those independent Members not represented on the committee.”