A tale of two LCOs

“On Wednesday, the National Assembly received legislative competence over certain aspects of mental health. It’s a process we and our mental health voluntary sector colleagues have been engaged with ever since Jonathan Morgan AM first introduced his request for these powers back in February 2008. The LCO has enjoyed full and active cross party support and I’m delighted it’s finally become a reality. Having seen the Welsh Assembly Government’s proposals for its first piece of mental health legislation, I’m optimistic that we could see changes introduced that’ll make a real difference to the lives of people experiencing mental ill-health. It was one of three bids for law-making powers (LCO’s) that were approved last week; the other two relate to aspects of environmental law and to the Welsh language.

Sadly, it does not appear to be such a success story for the Housing LCO, the future of which appears to be hanging by a thread. This is the second attempt to gain powers in Wales over aspects of housing and due to the impending general election the clock is ticking! This draft of the LCO encompasses a range of issues, including homelessness, right-to-buy and housing support services. Although supported by committees at the Assembly and the House of Commons, it now appears to have run into difficulties. I hope that politicians at both ends of the M4 can find a way of getting this important work back on track before it is too late.”

Ewan