James Evans MS has spoken out against the general principles of the Prohibition of Greyhound Racing (Wales) Bill, warning that the legislation fails fundamental tests of evidence, due process and legislative competence.
Speaking during the Senedd debate yesterday on the bill, James made clear that the issue is not about whether Members care about animal welfare, but whether the Bill represents good law and has been developed through a process worthy of the Senedd. He argued that on each of those measures, the Bill falls “massively short”.
James highlighted serious concerns raised by multiple Senedd scrutiny committees. The Culture Committee warned that the accelerated timetable, driven by a previous budget agreement with the Liberal Democrats, had compromised the quality of the Bill, leaving Members without sufficient information to assess its impacts at Stage 1. The Legislation, Justice and Constitution Committee raised further red flags over the Bill’s evidence base, the absence of impact assessments and whether it even sits within the Senedd’s legislative competence.
James also criticised the lack of proper consultation, pointing out that no White Paper, draft Bill or published impact assessment was produced before legislation proposing a total prohibition of a lawful, regulated activity was introduced. He warned that legislating first and assessing the consequences later turns the law-making process on its head.
James Evans MS, Member of the Senedd for Brecon & Radnorshire, said:
“This debate is not about whether we care about animal welfare, of course we do. The real question is whether this Bill represents good law, whether it is grounded in evidence, and whether it has been developed through a process worthy of this Senedd. On each of those tests, it fails massively.
“Our own cross-party scrutiny committees have been consistent in their criticism. They have warned about the rushed timetable, the lack of evidence, the absence of impact assessments and the failure to consult properly.
“A blanket ban is the most extreme option available, yet there is no convincing evidence that it will improve welfare outcomes. Licensed greyhound racing already operates within a regulated framework, with inspection, oversight and veterinary presence. If Ministers had genuine concerns, strengthening regulation should have been the starting point, not an outright prohibition agreed as part of a political deal.
“This Bill risks undermining confidence in how we make laws in Wales. Wales deserves legislation based on evidence, proper scrutiny and good process, not policy made to satisfy backroom agreements.”
