Delivering ‘significant change’ in Welsh politics

Professor Laura McAllister chaired the Expert Group on Diversity in Local Government, established at the request of Welsh Local Government and Government Business Minister, Lesley Griffiths

A University of Liverpool academic has examined the diversity of people entering Welsh politics with the aim that it will act as a “springboard to bring about significant change”.

Professor Laura McAllister, from the University’s Management School,  was tasked with producing a report following a 2012 survey of Welsh local government candidates revealed they were largely white men over the age of 60, with only 28% of elected representatives female.

The report recommends agreeing a target with political parties of 40% female candidates in winnable seats at the next elections; creating a mentoring scheme where existing members help potential future members to develop the necessary skills and knowledge; and delivering a publicity and education campaign to inform the public about local government and to ensure the idea of becoming active in local government is carried into the community.

Launching the report, which is aimed at the 2017 elections, Professor McAllister said: “Increasing the numbers of people from under-represented groups is not just about being ‘politically correct’ or ticking boxes. Local government provides front-line services to the public which are vital for their everyday lives so it is vital the people who make decisions on our behalf about all of these matters are in tune with and representative of their local communities and understand their needs.

“Unfortunately, when taken as a whole, this is clearly not the case currently for local government in Wales.

“I hope our report, and its recommendations, will serve as a springboard to bring about significant change in the types of people putting themselves forward for election at the next local elections, both at county and community level. We also need to ensure different candidates are elected because diverse councillors will revitalise our local councils and drive their future direction as a vital tier of governance for our small nation.”

Professor Laura McAllister is Professor of Governance at the University of Liverpool’s Management School. She is currently Chair of Sport Wales and a former Wales football international and national team captain with 24 caps. Laura is also a Board Member of UK Sport, Stonewall UK, the Welsh Football Trust, the British Council Wales and the Institute of Welsh Affairs.

To read the full report, download the pdf here