A Senedd member has been found to have broken the code of conduct after misrepresenting Wales’ 20mph speed limit as a “blanket ban.” Natasha Asghar, representing the South Wales East region in the Senedd, received a reprimand for continuing to use the term “blanket ban” despite being warned against it by a committee she sits on. Asghar, who also serves on the standards committee in the Senedd, had to excuse herself from discussions on the term “blanket” due to her committee membership and was familiar with the issue’s context.
A report following the incident stated that describing the 20mph speed limit as a “blanket” was imprecise and inaccurate. The report highlighted the importance of elected representatives upholding high standards and being accurate in their statements, whether in public debates or on social media. The complaint against Asghar was raised by Lee Waters, a former deputy transport minister, for her use of the term in a plenary session held in March 2024.
The Welsh Government has described the speed limit as a national default, not a blanket ban. Despite a reprimand issued by the Senedd’s presiding officer to all members regarding the use of incorrect terms, Asghar continued to use the term online. The committee found that Asghar breached several rules, including failure to uphold standards, act truthfully, and avoid behavior that brings disrepute to the Senedd or its members.
The report concluded that Asghar’s actions brought the Senedd into disrepute and failed to demonstrate the expected leadership qualities. It emphasized the importance of members maintaining integrity and leadership in their actions to uphold the institution’s reputation and public trust. Asghar has been contacted for comment on the findings.
The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by social media use for elected representatives and the need to ensure that communication and statements align with the principles of integrity and leadership. The report recommended censuring Asghar for breaching the code of conduct, underscoring the seriousness of such violations within the Senedd.
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