Welsh Language (Wales) Measure 2011

What is the purpose of the Measure?

The Measure includes provisions about the official status of the Welsh language and establishes the office of Welsh Language Commissioner, which will replace the Welsh Language Board. 

The Commissioner will have wide ranging functions and powers to promote and facilitate the use of the Welsh language and to promote equality between Welsh and English. The Measure also allows for the development of ‘standards’ covering the integration of the Welsh language in the development and delivery of services to the public by a range of organisations and which will, over time, replace Welsh language schemes.   

Finally the Measure gives the Commissioner the power to investigate complaints from Welsh speakers who believe that their freedom to use Welsh with one another has been interfered with.

Importantly, the Measure also creates a Welsh Language Tribunal that can hear appeals against the Commissioner’s decisions, both regarding the detail of standards or outcome of investigations.

What are the benefits of the Measure?

The Welsh language is part of our common national heritage and identity and the Measure will modernise the existing legal framework regarding the use of the Welsh language in the delivery of public services. The duties placed on organisations in the form of standards will lead to rights for citizens to receive services in Welsh.

How do I find out more information?

To view the approved Measure and supporting documentation, visit the National Archives.