What Is 2nd National Assembly for Wales

Overview

The 2nd National Assembly for Wales was the second term of the devolved legislature established after the 1997 referendum that approved Welsh self-governance. It followed the first term (1999–2003) and marked a period of growing institutional maturity for the Assembly.

Elected on May 1, 2003, the Assembly convened its first session shortly after. This term was significant for consolidating devolved powers and expanding the scope of legislation in areas like health, education, and local government.

• Term Start: The 2nd Assembly officially began on May 1, 2003, following the general election held that day.
• Composition: It included 60 Assembly Members, elected from both constituencies and regional lists using the Additional Member System (AMS).
• Largest Party:Welsh Labour won 30 seats, giving them a plurality but not an outright majority.
• Minority Government: Labour formed a minority administration led by First Minister Rhodri Morgan, continuing from the previous term.
• Devolved Powers: The Assembly had authority over 20 policy areas, including health, education, transport, and environment, though tax-varying powers were still limited.

How It Works

The 2nd National Assembly operated under the framework established by the Government of Wales Act 1998, which defined its legislative and executive functions. Members conducted business through plenary sessions, committees, and ministerial portfolios.

• Term: The Assembly served a fixed term of four years, from 2003 to 2007, after which new elections were held.
• Election Method: Members were elected using the Additional Member System (AMS), combining 40 first-past-the-post constituency seats with 20 regional list seats.
• Regional Lists: Five electoral regions—North Wales, Mid and West Wales, South Wales West, South Wales East, and South Wales Central—each elected four regional AMs.
• Executive Formation: After the election, Rhodri Morgan was re-elected First Minister, leading a Labour minority government.
• Legislative Process: The Assembly could pass Assembly Measures in devolved areas, though full law-making powers were not granted until the 2006 Government of Wales Act.
• Committee System:11 standing committees scrutinized legislation, budgets, and government actions, enhancing democratic accountability.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2nd National Assembly with adjacent terms to highlight key differences in composition and governance.

This table illustrates the evolving political dynamics in Wales. While the number of AMs remained constant, coalition patterns shifted. The 2nd Assembly was notable for Labour ruling without a formal coalition, relying on ad hoc support.

Why It Matters

The 2nd National Assembly played a crucial role in advancing Welsh devolution and setting precedents for future governance. Its work laid the foundation for greater legislative independence.

• Institutional Growth: The Assembly strengthened its committee structures, improving scrutiny and transparency in decision-making.
• Policy Development: It passed key measures in healthcare and education reform, including free NHS prescriptions introduced later.
• Political Precedent: The minority government model demonstrated that stable governance was possible without a majority, influencing future administrations.
• Public Engagement: The Assembly increased outreach efforts, boosting public awareness of devolution and civic participation.
• Legal Evolution: Debates during this term contributed to the passage of the Government of Wales Act 2006, expanding law-making powers.
• Foundation for Independence: This period helped normalize devolved institutions, paving the way for the 2011 referendum on direct law-making powers.

Overall, the 2nd National Assembly for Wales was a pivotal chapter in Wales’ journey toward self-governance, balancing practical governance with long-term constitutional development.