Welsh Government preparing for more criminal justice powers

Welsh ministers are making preparations for the devolution of powers over youth justice, probation, and policing, according to the Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt MS.

During a statement to the Senedd, Hutt informed members that the Welsh Government is not just advocating for powers over criminal justice, but actively getting ready for their devolution.

Hutt emphasized the importance of working on the practical aspects of devolution, such as defining exactly what should be devolved, how new responsibilities would be utilized, and assessing the associated costs and capabilities.

She stressed that the conversation is not solely about powers, but rather about achieving the best outcomes for the people of Wales, particularly women and young individuals. While criminal justice remains reserved to Westminster, there is an overlap of responsibilities between the Welsh and UK Governments in health and education.

This has been referred to as the "jagged edge" of Welsh justice in a report from 2019. Hutt explained that the blueprints for women and youth offenders were developed jointly with the Ministry of Justice, police, prison, probation, and youth services in 2019. S

he pointed out that there has been a decrease in the number of women receiving immediate custodial sentences and a decline in the involvement of young people in the criminal justice system since the introduction of these blueprints.

Mark Isherwood, the Conservatives’ shadow minister, expressed concern about a residential women’s center in Swansea, which was initially announced by ministers but later rejected by the council.

The center was eventually approved after an appeal, but Isherwood questioned the due diligence process of the Welsh Government.

In addition, Sioned Williams, for Plaid Cymru, reiterated her party’s call for the full devolution of justice. She highlighted various issues within the current justice system in Wales, including overcrowded prisons, inequalities, and the violation of children’s rights.