Government of Wales Bill

I have been called worse things in my time and probably will be again. However, whether the Bill is scraps from the table or half or loaf, what is on offer tonight is exactly what the Welsh people are demanding. It is a huge regret that at the last minute of the eleventh hour the Conservative party—the main Opposition—should set its face firmly against devolution. The Conservatives cannot seriously hold their heads up high tomorrow. They cannot ever again say that they support devolution. They would be laughing stocks if they tried to maintain that position. Like my hon. Friend the Member for Newport, East (Jessica Morden), I take particular pride in and satisfaction from the fact that new clause 12—which is unique to this Bill and has been incorporated into it through the Government’s acceptance and with cross-party support—will strengthen the links not only with employers’ federations and small and large businesses, but with our union colleagues. That will be a major advance in the Assembly’s existing arrangements. In major decisions on environmental, social and economic well-being, there will be a duty for the Assembly to consult with employers and employees. That is a huge move forward and I regret that this evening the Conservatives will be voting not only against devolution and the principles of devolution, but against new clause 12 which gives a voice to employers and employees. Alone in the House, the Conservative party is setting its face against the CBI, the TUC and devolution in Wales. That is remarkable and I look forward to Conservative Members justifying it not only to their constituents but to the head of the CBI in Wales and the head of the TUC. Question put, That the Bill be now read the Third time:— The House divided: Ayes 324, Noes 143.