The Senedd Commission has proposed a significant budget increase of 16% to accommodate the expansion plans set to increase the number of politicians in Cardiff Bay from 60 to 96 by 2026. The draft budget of £84.3m for the upcoming year includes an additional £12.1m to cover various costs associated with Senedd reforms, public-sector pay, lift and IT upgrades, and screen replacements in the debating chamber.
The commission highlighted that this budget increase is crucial to implement the most extensive change since the advent of devolution in 1999, with the aim of supporting a 60% increase in Senedd members. However, the Conservative party has criticised the rising costs of Senedd reform, arguing that the focus should be on addressing the substantial NHS treatment backlog affecting one in five people in Wales.
The proposed 2025/26 budget includes a 9% rise in staff costs from the previous year, incorporating a 5% pay increase in line with much of the public sector. A dedicated £456,000 fund is allocated to finalize pay negotiations for lower-paid staff. Additionally, £2m is earmarked for the ‘Bay 2032′ project, exploring office options as the current Tŷ Hywel lease approaches expiration.
Furthermore, an extra £900,000, in addition to the previous year’s £1.8m, will be invested in renovating the debating chamber to accommodate the increased number of members. The budget proposal aims to balance the necessity of enhancing democratic representation while being mindful of accountability and taxpayer value for money.
Despite a total reduction of £750,000 in the Senedd Commission budget over the past two financial years, significant funds amounting to £800,000 were allocated for staff cost-of-living adjustments. The anticipated costs related to Senedd reform are estimated to increase by £3.9m for 2025/26, representing a 5.3% adjusted rise from the previous year.
The Welsh Parliament’s corporate body, comprising the Llywydd Speaker and four Senedd members from major parties, views the reforms as a crucial step towards enhancing representation and scrutiny. The proposed increase in the number of members aims to align the Senedd with other devolved parliaments, facilitating more robust democratic processes.
The Scottish Parliament’s 2024/25 budget, at £135.6m, equates to roughly £1m per member, whereas Wales’ budget stands at around £875,000 per member. The commission emphasizes efforts to ensure value for money within the proposed budget framework.
Senedd members are expected to vote on the budget proposals in November, with a likelihood of approval given the broad support for the reforms. However, passing the Welsh Government’s budget early next year may prove more challenging for First Minister Eluned Morgan due to the delicate parliamentary balance.
Funded from the Welsh consolidated fund, derived from UK Government contributions, the Senedd Commission and Welsh Government are set to navigate through significant structural changes as Wales prepares for an expanded and more empowered parliamentary landscape.