§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what will be the impact on the Welsh Assembly of the proposals in the White Paper on Open Government; and if he will make a statement. [22097]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsThe principles of open government will apply equally to the National Assembly for Wales. The Government of Wales Bill make specific provision for proceedings of the Assembly to be open to the public and for access to and public inspection of documents—clauses 69 and 112. These requirements will be supplemented by the Assembly's standing orders.
The Advisory Group which my right hon. Friend has appointed will be taking full account of the White paper in the advice it provides on how the standing orders should be developed.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on the future of town and community councils with particular reference to his proposals for the Welsh Assembly. [22096]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsThe Government attach particular importance to the role of town and community councils given their role as the tier of government with the closest democratic links to local people. Under the provision of the Government of Wales Bill, the National Assembly for Wales will establish a Partnership Council with local government. Membership of the Council will be determined by the Assembly in the light of consultation with, and nominations received from, associations of local authorities in Wales. This would include associations representing town and community councils.