Title

LEGISLATION

Wales considers PR for local elections

Councils could be allowed to introduce proportional representation for local elections under new proposals unveiled by the Welsh Government.

Councils could be allowed to introduce proportional representation for local elections under new proposals unveiled by the Welsh Government.

The consultation on electoral reform in Wales also includes plans to allow 16 and 17 year olds the right to vote in council elections.

Other proposals include introducing electronic voting, allowing voting at other places other than polling stations and giving foreign citizens normally resident in Wales the right to vote.

‘We want to make it easier to vote and easier to be entitled to vote', said local government secretary Mark Drakeford.

‘There's no reason why 16 and 17 year olds can marry, pay taxes and join the army but can't vote in our elections. 

‘There's no reason why, in the 21st century, we can carry out all sorts of daily transactions online but can't, as of yet, vote online.

‘That's why we're setting out a number of different ideas to modernise the electoral system and putting out a call for the public to share their ideas with us too.'

Mr Drakeford also announced details of a Local Government Bill that would lead to mandatory regional working between Wales' 22 councils on areas such as economic development and strategic transport.

Councils would also be required to work regionally on other services like education improvement, social services, additional learning needs and other aspects of land use planning.

 

LEGISLATION

Managing the mission to beef up growth

By Ann McGauran | 10 June 2026

The National Wealth Fund has significantly broadened its remit. Through its regional project accelerator programme, it aims to unlock more than £100bn of inv...

LEGISLATION

Using below-market land disposals to accelerate social housing

By Mark Cook | 09 June 2026

Councils have greater flexibility to dispose of land for affordable housing than often assumed, but outdated consent rules should be reformed to support deli...

LEGISLATION

A rights-based case for new homes at Crews Hill and Chase Park

By Holly Lewis | 08 June 2026

Holly Lewis says a rights-based approach to planning can help councils balance local concerns with housing need, ensuring decisions reflect the interests of ...

LEGISLATION

Chiefs take charge

By By Neil Merrick | 04 June 2026

Uncertainty at several local authorities as recent elections leave chief executives presiding over a changing political landscape.

Popular articles by Laura Sharman