SCME - CYP04

Senedd Cymru | Welsh Parliament

Y Pwyllgor Biliau Diwygio | Reform Bill Committee

Bil Senedd Cymru (Aelodau ac Etholiadau): barn plant a phobl Ifanc | Senedd Cymru (Members and Elections) Bill: children and young people's views

Ymateb gan Individual | Evidence from Unigolyn

What do you think about the new voting system?

I think the new voting system that is based on a candidates political party is not a change I would like to see. I think that if a candidates name is on the ballot paper, it is more likely that voters will contact them in the future (name recognition)

What do you think about increasing the number of Members from 60 to 96?

I disagree with this proposed change. This is because the budget for the Welsh Parliament is severely stretched at the moment (with 60 members). The increase of politicians to 96 is an unneeded cost for the taxpayer. It also could lead to a more bureaucratic route to a law being passed.

Would any of the changes in the Bill make you more or less likely to want to stand for election as a Member of the Senedd?

I think that the changes to the amount of members and the decrease of term time (5 years to 4) will make me less likely to stand to be an MS in the future. This is because I feel that a smaller Senedd is more likely to collaborate and get the important laws passed. And the changing to amount of time MS' serve is a pointless change that differs from the precedent accepted by other elected bodies in the UK.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us about the Bill (we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 500 words)?

I am in favour of changing the law so only people who live in Wales can become MS'. This is because they will have to live in Wales, to understand the issues and problems facing the people living here. It is ensuring MS' will be more accountable.