Shadow Minister for Local Government Janet Finch-Saunders AM, has urged the Welsh Government to bring further transparency and accountability to local democracy in Wales. During a debate in Plenary she challenged Lesley Griffiths AM, Minister for Local Government and Government Business, to address the ‘democratic gulf’ between England and Wales. She said of the debate:

“Across the border in England radical reforms have been made to the ways in which council meetings are conducted, including the right of the public to blog, film and Tweet about the meetings. 

“Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Eric Pickles MP has taken bold steps to empower armchair auditors, by prying open the rights of access to local council meetings.

“Across Wales, people feel disenfranchised with their local democratic process. This is clearly evident in the lack of participation by both prospective candidates, and electors. If the people of Wales were empowered to more closely engage with democracy, we would see these numbers turn around.”

“I want to see taxpayers, journalists and all interested parties in Wales have the same rights as their English counterparts. I believe the Welsh Government should issue clear and comprehensive central guidance to local authorities in Wales, handing power back to the people”.