Government of Wales Bill

No; I do not agree with the hon. Gentleman and do not propose to introduce such a provision at this late stage, especially given the consultation across Wales. In conclusion, the basic point of the Government’s position is that the voters should be in charge, not the parties, and that losers should not become winners. Why are the Opposition parties so scared of having to make a choice between standing in a constituency or standing on a regional list? The voters expect candidates to make that choice, and the integrity of the system will be increased by it, especially because at least six sitting Labour Members will be ““penalised””—if that is the word—along with other party members. In my view, however, no one will be penalised; indeed, I think that the voters will win. I welcome the point made by Lord Ellis-Thomas, the presiding officer of the Assembly, who has said that the argument has been won—he has recognised the reality—and both former leaders of Plaid Cymru have made the same point. We need Royal Assent for the Bill before the end of the Session, and I hope that nobody will seek to frustrate that ambition and that the Government’s position will be carried tonight. Question put, That this House disagrees with the Lords in the said amendment:— The House divided: Ayes 294, Noes 213.