The Human Rights Act 1998

Part of 1. Questions to the Minister for Social Justice – in the Senedd at 2:15 pm on 16 March 2022.

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Photo of Sarah Murphy Sarah Murphy Labour 2:15, 16 March 2022

Minister, at First Minister's questions yesterday, I thanked the Welsh Government for its commitment to helping those fleeing the atrocities we're seeing in Ukraine and upholding our values that Wales is a nation of sanctuary. I stated that the kindness and generosity that we are seeing across our communities is the best of Wales, and that when people are experiencing such traumatic and devastating circumstances, we will do what we can to help them in their time of need.

I find it appalling, then, that in such a crisis, we are seeing the UK Government propose to reform the 1998 Human Rights Act and includes damaging consequences for people seeking refuge or asylum across the UK. Minister, recent events have highlighted that the consequences of war can affect any one of us and I'd remind the UK Government that damage to any group of people is a damage to all of our rights. Equality comes with no ifs and no buts. So, can the Minister therefore ensure that the Welsh Government is engaging with the UK Government to oppose any reform that will put the rights of people at risk?