No licence to Rhyl as James Bond is banned from filming in Welsh Assembly

The decision to refuse the makers of the latest James Bond movie permission to film inside the Welsh Assembly’s main debating chamber has been labelled a “missed opportunity”. The Welsh Assembly Commission were asked if the Siambr in the Senedd could be used to shoot scenes for the next 007 instalment Spectre. However, officials turned down the request – insisting the main chamber of Welsh politics was not a “drama studio”. But Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies said he is not convinced that saying no to the makers of one of cinema’s most lucrative series was a wise move.

From a Welsh tourism perspective, that’s the sort of publicity money can’t buy.

Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies

Davies said: “TV and film-related tourism is a major industry, bringing fans of Harry Potter, Sherlock Holmes and Doctor Who to Welsh locations. It’s a shame that Spectre won’t be added to that list.” It is believed The Assembly Commission, which looks after the running of the institution, was approached by the makers of Spectre late last year. The film, which sees Daniel Craig return as Bond, has already started filming. However, Assembly chiefs stuck to their guns, arguing it would be highly unlikely permission would ever be granted to film an action film on the floor of the House of Commons.

Some media activity is allowed in the Siambr when it relates to the work of the Assembly (but) it is not a drama studio. The request by (the producers of) James Bond to use the Siambr was turned down and they were offered alternative locations on the estate – which they subsequently declined.

Welsh Assembley statement

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