The Senedd's standards commissioner has warned that complaints about members are likely to rise next year, despite a 37% drop in the current period. New complaints fell from 136 in 2024-25 to 86 in 2025-26, according to the latest annual report.
Social Media Conduct Leads Complaints
Of the 86 complaints received between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026, 21 were about conduct on social media, making it the most common reason. Other complaints included 12 about misuse of resources, nine about poor service, and 12 about failure to notify changes to registered interests within the four-week deadline. The remaining complaints covered Welsh Government policy and other matters outside the commissioner's remit.
Increase in Members Expected to Drive Complaints Up
Outgoing standards commissioner Douglas Bain said the increase in the number of Members of the Senedd (MSs) will likely lead to more complaints. "The increase in the number of Members and the fact so many of them have not previously been Members will almost certainly result in an increase in the number of complaints received," Bain stated. He added that he has already conducted induction sessions to help new members understand his role and the complaints process.
Few Breaches Found
Many complaints were deemed inadmissible because the conduct, even if proven, would not have breached any rules. Apart from minor technical failures, only one member—Conservative Janet Finch-Saunders—was found to have breached relevant provisions during the year.
