David T. C. Davies MP, Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee, has
written to First Secretary of State Rt. Hon. Damian GreenMP,
seeking clarification on a number of points relating to Brexit, and
its implications for Wales. This follows the Committee launching an
inquiry into Brexit and its implications for Welsh agriculture,
trade and the repatriation of powers.
Since launching its inquiry, the Committee has held two evidence
sessions. These focused on the EU (Withdrawal) Bill, its impact
on the current Welsh devolution settlement, and possible future
changes to agriculture and trade policy frameworks following
Brexit. Whilst the Committee has not yet concluded its inquiry, a
number of issues have been raised over the course of these two
sessions, and it is with these in mind that the Committee Chair
has written to the First Secretary of State.
The letter seeks information on the following points:
- Whether the UK Government has completed a risk assessment for
the impact of Brexit on Wales, and whether this can be shared
with the Committee
- Policy areas which will be devolved without a need for
agreement by common frameworks and those for which UK-wide common
frameworks would be required
- How frequently the Joint Ministerial Committee (European
Negotiations) will meet going forward
- The Government’s preferred model of consultation with the
devolved administrations and what preparatory work is being
undertaken on common framework governance models.
David T. C. Davies said: “As the Committee continues to examine
the implications of Brexit for Welsh agriculture, trade, and how
powers will be repatriated following the UK’s departure from the
EU, we would welcome a response from the First Secretary of State
on these key points ahead of the EU (Withdrawal) Bill’s return to
the House of Commons. An insight into the Government’s priorities
and future plans will be vital as our inquiry continues to
examine the issues, gauge opinion and make recommendations as to
the best way forward for Wales.”
