§ 8. Miss Anne McIntosh (Vale of York) (Con)What recent discussions he has had with the First Minister of the National Assembly for Wales on devolving further powers to the Assembly. [187926]
§ The Secretary of State for Wales (Mr. Peter Hain)The First Minister and I have regular bilaterals to discuss a number of issues, including the report of the Richard commission and the devolution of further powers to Wales.
§ Miss McIntoshWhat is the current thinking of the First Minister on the devolution of further powers to Wales, and is it the same as the right hon. Gentleman's?
§ Mr. HainThe answer is yes, and we are committed to a practical route map for better governance in Wales and increased and enhanced powers for the National Assembly for Wales, through consultation, as agreed unanimously at our Welsh Labour conference on Saturday by 300 delegates. That contrasts with the policy of the chair of the Welsh Conservative party, who wants the Assembly stripped of power, no doubt in preparation for a future under planet Redwood, which would see Wales being dragged back and powers taken back to the Tories.