The results of YouGov’s first ever Welsh poll, released this morning, show a strong level of support for further devolution of powers to Wales. When asked whether Wales should have the same powers as the Scottish Parliament, 63% of respondents were in favour, with only 28% being opposed. This is a move which has been advocated by Cymru Yfory, and one which is vindicated by the results of this morning’s poll.

63% of respondents are in support of a referendum on primary lawmaking powers, with 42% saying they would vote yes in such a referendum if it were held tomorrow.

When quizzed on their constitutional preferences, 14% per cent supported Welsh independence, 34 % supported a Welsh Parliament with full lawmaking powers and tax varying powers, 24% wished to preserve the status quo while only 17% supported abolishing the Assembly.

It is the view of Cymru Yfory that these figures show clear support for further devolution, and that this support is increasing over time. Consistent polling evidence shows a strong, steady increase in support for devolution since 1997 with a proper law-making parliament now the most popular option.

*All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov Plc.  Total sample size was 1,078 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 21st - 23rd October 2009.  The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all GB adults (aged 18+).

Who said that young people are not interested in politics? I recently had the privilege of meeting over a hundred sixth formers from schools and colleges in Gwent in an event organised by the Bevan Foundation to celebrate democracy and 170 years since the Chartist Uprising in Newport. The young people were taking part in a “Question Time” style discussion with four politicians. I didn’t manage to catch the whole of the session but from what I did hear these young people were enthusiastic, intelligent and they had strong opinions about our political system in Wales and the UK.

Cymru Yfory Tomorrow’s Wales had a stall at the event, alongside the political parties, trade unions, charities and True Wales. The reason the stall-holders were all there was to sell their message and of course Cymru Yfory’s message is that the National Assembly needs to have primary law-making powers. The young people didn’t need much persuasion to sign our Declaration for Welsh Democracy. When the message is presented in a simple way the young people get it straight away – the message captures the imagination. Why should Scotland and Northern Ireland have more powers than Wales? They see straight away that the system as it is is unfair and needs to change. They see that Wales needs a proper Parliament.

Many of these young people will be voting for the first time in the next few months. In order for them to get into the habit of voting they need a topic that will excite them. I’m confident that when the referendum comes these young people will remember the message they heard in Newport and vote YES.

Elin Wyn

Development Officer, Cymru Yfory