Major breakthrough in fight against LCOitis

Wales is suffering from a major new epidemic - LCOitis.

The symptoms? Confusion, yawning and, in the most extreme cases, an inability to stay conscious. The source of this new and worrying epidemic - colleagues point to the appearance of the Government of Wales Act 2006 as the most possible source.

Let me explain...

Yesterday, I attended a major conference organised by the Bevan Foundation and Positif Politics. It brought together a whole host of speakers to explain how Wales is governed and how organisations like BMA Cymru Wales can make use of the Assembly's new powers. Under the Act, the Welsh Assembly Government and Assembly Members can now ask for Legislative Competence Orders (LCOs) from the UK Government -which basically means the power for the Assembly to change the law in the areas that are devolved.

Until yesterday, I was an extreme sufferer of LCOitis. Everytime an AM, MP, journalist or Welsh academic started talking about 'LCOs' my condition deteriorated.

Thankfully, I am happy to report - I'm getting better. The cure? Well, anyone who thinks they may be suffering should consult Daran Hill and Huw Edwards' excellent guide to the Government of Wales Act, available by contacting the Bevan Foundation.

So far, it's the only known cure.