Cameron’s devolution vow

Mar 2 2008 by Matt Withers, Wales On Sunday

CONSERVATIVE leader David Cameron yesterday announced a review of the party’s position on devolution as it prepares for a referendum on full law-making powers.

Mr Cameron told the party’s Welsh conference in Llandudno that a consultation on “ways to make devolution work better” would be headed by former Wales Minister Lord Wyn Roberts.

But Plaid Cymru said the announcement was a rebuke for the Conservatives’ Welsh chief, Nick Bourne, who has publicly stated his support for a Welsh Parliament.

Under the terms of the One Wales coalition agreement between Labour and Plaid in the Assembly, a referendum on full law-making powers must be held by 2011.

But the Conservatives remain divided on the issue, with Mr Bourne and his AMs in favour but Tory MPs and many members opposed.

Mr Cameron told the conference: “I can announce today that the party is going to look at how we can make devolution work better.

“And I’m delighted that Wyn Roberts, one of the most dedicated public servants Wales has ever had, has agreed to head this up.

“Wyn will consult widely to find the best way ahead, study the options and offer us a full overview of the possibilities.

“He’s promised us an interim report by the summer.”

Mr Bourne publicly welcomed the report, saying: “I am delighted with David Cameron’s announcement today that Wyn Roberts will look at how we can make devolution work better.

“There is nobody better for this role than Wyn.”

Plaid Cymru’s deputy leader, Alun Ffred Jones, claimed Mr Cameron’s comments made Mr Bourne “an irrelevance”.

He said: “Whilst Plaid Cymru have led this debate on more powers, the Conservatives are now dithering, and their party leader has decided to distance himself and his party from Mr Bourne’s stance.

“This is a huge embarassment for Nick Bourne, who’s been slapped down for voicing a view without the permission of his bosses in London.”