Independent Wales Covid-19 review approved
The Welsh Government has approved the establishment of an independent Wales Covid-19 review. A ministerial decision published on Wednesday 21 October confirms the agreement. The decision was made by the Cabinet Minister for Government and Effectiveness and the Constitution. The published summary does not name a chair, set out terms of reference or give a start or reporting date.
What the decision establishes
The approval confirms that a Wales review is to be established. The short notice does not explain its legal powers, evidence-taking process or how bereaved families and others will be able to contribute. Those details will determine how the review works in practice. The decision is not itself a report of findings. It should not be read as a completed assessment of pandemic decisions or a finding against any individual.
A separate UK inquiry response
In a statement on 20 October, First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth said the Welsh Government would consider the UK Covid-19 Inquiry’s Module 6 findings on adult social care and set out the action needed. That statement says a response to the UK report and its recommendations is required within six months. That is a separate obligation: it does not set the timetable for the newly approved Wales review.
Background and supporting figures
Where this sits
Approval of the independent Wales review is a new ministerial decision, but the short summary does not establish its legal powers or participation process.
The six-month response requirement concerns the UK Inquiry Module 6 report; it is not a deadline to complete the new Wales review.