Written evidence from Wayne David MP |
| As you may recall, when I gave evidence to the Commission on the 14th March, I expressed the view that there ought not to be any fundamental change in the electoral system for the Welsh Assembly. However, in the light of the experience of a second assembly election and widespread comment from members of the public, I believe there is an overwhelming case for one modest but important change to the electoral arrangements. |
| In an Early Day Motion before the House Commons, I have set out what I believe this change should be. The EDM, which is set out below, has been signed, to date, by eighteen Backbench Labour MP’s and, therefore clearly represents a significant view inside the Welsh Parliamentary Labour Party. |
| "That this House notes the unfortunate situation in Wales where several Nationalist, Liberal Democrat and Conservative Members of the National Assembly have been elected on regional lists when they have been rejected by electorates in constituency first-past-the-post elections; believes that such a situation undermines the democratic process and gives a morally weak mandate to AM’s elected in such a way; and calls upon the Government to bring forward an amendment to the Government of Wales Act 1998 to ensure that candidates stand for either a constituency seat or a regional list seat but not both." |
| I would be extremely appreciative if the Commission could consider this EDM at the earliest opportunity. |
| Wayne David MP 19 May 2003 |