PALESTINE campaigners were jubilant today as the Welsh government announced its opposition to the Tory “anti-boycott Bill.”

The Welsh government has announced it is formally opposing Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Secretary Michael Gove’s toxic anti-boycott Bill and has recommended the Senedd withhold legislative consent. 

This follows months of campaigning by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and a coalition of more than 70 civil society organisations to demand the Welsh government and Senedd oppose the Bill.

Welsh finance minister Rebecca Evans said in her memorandum to the Senedd: “I cannot recommend consent is given while questions remain as to the compatibility of this Bill with convention rights and international law. 

“In addition, I note that there has been widespread criticism of this Bill from among the legal and academic community, in relation to the way it has been drafted and how it is intended to operate in practice. I share those concerns.”

Wales Palestine Solidarity Campaign’s (PSC) Kathy Brooks said: “We welcome the position adopted by the Welsh government.

“We believe they recognise that this Bill is totally disproportionate and unnecessary, and an attack on the freedom of local authorities, universities and Welsh government to make procurement and investment decisions in line with the policies made in the nations.”

The Wales PSC said the decision was the latest blow to Mr Gove’s toxic anti-boycott Bill, following the Scottish government’s decision to formally oppose it in August.

Earlier this month, the TUC also passed a motion at its annual congress announcing opposition to the Bill.

The Senedd’s business committee has said the Welsh Parliament will consider the recommendation by November 24.