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

Growing London benefits everyone

By Antonia Jennings | 07 October 2025

London must not be ignored as the Government focuses on spreading devolution across England – for the good of the whole country, writes Antonia Jennings.

LEGISLATION

Dear secretary of state – part 2

By Steve Leach | 01 October 2025

As the new secretary of state Steve Reed settles into his new role, Steve Leach and Colin Copus tell him that now is not a good time for a ‘disruptive, expen...

LEGISLATION

Renewing democratic leadership

By Dr Sonia Bussu | 29 September 2025

Dr Jason Lowther and Dr Sonia Bussu examine how councillors can foster democratic innovations to bridge the gap between citizens and institutions.

LEGISLATION

From consultation to co-creation

By Andy Clarke | 29 September 2025

Andy Clarke explains how Growing Talent Morley is inspiring the next generation of place-makers.

Popular articles by Laura Sharman