Wales had its second devolution referendum yesterday, this time on whether the Welsh government should be able to pass laws on devolved areas without involving the British government.
The Welsh have had their second referendum, the Scots are due for their third soon on increased powers recommended by the Calman Commission and I don’t even know how many the Northern Irish have had but it’s a fair few. The English, however, are still refused a referendum on devolution by the British government.
Last night I predicted that the result would be around 70% in favour give or take 5% with about a 50% turnout. The turnout is looking low with 600k votes from 18 of the 22 electoral districts. With approximately 2.26m registered voters in Wales, turnout is going to be about 35% so I was a bit out on the turnout but so far it’s looking like about 62% in favour of increased powers so I wasn’t that far out!
I am genuinely pleased for the Welsh in gaining extra powers from the British government, I just hope it makes more English people site up and take notice of the fact that the Brits refuse to give us equal rights in this so-called “United” Kingdom.
What will Westminster do with all the extra time?