Following the referendum of 18 September 1997, the National Assembly for Wales was established by the Government of Wales Act 1998, to take on the powers and responsibilities of the Secretary of State for Wales.

Since 1 July 1999, the Assembly has the power and responsibility to develop and implement policy and make vital decisions in a range of areas:

• Agriculture
• Ancient monuments and historic buildings
• Culture
• Economic development
• Education and training
• The environment
• Health and health services
• Highways
• Housing
• Industry
• Local government
• Social services
• Sport and leisure
• Tourism
• Town and country planning
• Transport and roads
• The Welsh language

The essential structures and procedures for the Assembly are laid down in the Government of Wales Act 1998. The more detailed processes are set out in the Assembly Standing Orders.

The Assembly has the power and responsibility to make vital decisions.For example, it is able to:

• Fund, direct and make appointments to NHS bodies in Wales and hold them to account
• Set the content of the National Curriculum in Wales
• Provide financial assistance to businesses in Wales
• Administer European structural funds
• Implement policies on care in the community
• Promote agri-environment schemes.

Wales remains part of the UK and the Secretary of State for Wales and Members of Parliament from Welsh constituencies continue to have seats in Westminster. Laws passed by Parliament in Westminster still apply to Wales.