Defeat of Autism Bill exposes more Lib Dem hypocrisy

Llyr Gruffydd AM said that the sole Liberal Democrat AM’s decision to vote against the bill signalled a clear U-turn on her party’s policy.

Fewer than six months ago the Welsh Liberal Democrats fought the Assembly Election with an explicit manifesto pledge “to introduce: An Autism Bill, to meet the needs of autistic people for the next Assembly term and beyond”.

Plaid Cymru’s Llyr Gruffyd said:

“The fact that Kirsty Williams chose to vote with the Labour Welsh Government against the Autism Bill represents a clear departure from her party’s policy.

“Fewer than six months ago, the Welsh Liberal Democrats fought an Assembly Election campaign on an explicit manifesto pledge to “introduce an Autism Bill, to meet the needs of autistic people for the next Assembly term and beyond.”

“However, when the opportunity was presented to support such a Bill, the sole Liberal Democrat AM chose to side with the tribal Labour party to oppose what would have been an important and progressive piece of legislation.

“This is yet another example of hypocrisy from the Lib Dems – a party now renowned for abandoning their principles and reneging on their promises.

“Plaid Cymru’s manifesto included a clear pledge to introduce legislation that protects and promotes the rights of autistic people in Wales, their families and carers.

“Unlike the Lib Dems, the Party of Wales was happy to put party politics to one side and support the motion in the Assembly yesterday.

“Kirsty Williams must be called out for yet another policy U-turn and clarify her party’s stance on this all-important issue.”