Huw says more on a referendum campaign

Huw on the Convention

“As I have said throughout this leadership campaign – and before – I’m not running to rip up any deals and I remain committed to the terms of the One Wales agreement with regards to delivering this referendum by 2011. There are questions that remain unanswered, however. That is why I believe it is important to have an honest broker at the helm in Wales right now, someone who doesn’t just want extra power for its own sake. The Convention’s report neither explains how, in social terms, more powers will deliver better outcomes for our communities – a better economy, better schools and a cleaner environment. Nor does the Convention really deal with how you actually win a referendum. My leadership will focus on answering those questions.

“As Labour’s organiser for the referendum vote in 1997 I remember full well how close we came to losing. The “Yes for Wales” campaign had bankrupt itself with two weeks remaining of the campaign, and we were haemorrhaging support across Wales. Without the huge financial support and organisational skills of Welsh Labour that vote would have been lost. I’m not sure there are many people arguing for an early referendum who understand the nuts and bolts of how you win a campaign like this.

“There’s a huge amount to do to raise the money you need and that is why I have been consistent, and the other two leadership contenders have come on board with this now, that there will be no referendum before the General Election.

“As for inspiring people to vote yes, with a vision for a better Wales, only deliverable through further powers – well I think that remains the elephant in the room. Tactically, is it possible to win a referendum saying you want parity with Scotland for the sake of fairness? Possibly. But without explaining how that delivers a better economy and a better society, it is an electoral con trick. I don’t want to con the people of Wales, I want to inspire people to vote yes.”