Relations between the Cortes Generales and the Autonomous Parliaments. Old acquaintances or great strangers?

Abstract

This article deals with the inter-relationships between the various Spanish Regional Assemblies (Asambleas de las Comunidades Autónomas) and the Cortes Generales, the Spanish National Parliament. Our contention is
that there is a need to reinforce and offcialize their relations, beyond their current informality and lack of established procedures, fnding channels that make it possible to share knowledge and experience. In our discussion, we
offer an analysis of the instruments provided by the Spanish Constitution, such as Regional Assemblies Bills, or senators elected by the legislative Assemblies or higher bodies of the Regional Administrations. a. Furthermore, we vindicate the role of the Senate as the House of Representatives of the national territories, as the perfect arena and driving force to enhance those relationships, which, in a compound state like ours must necessarily take place on an equal footing, and be developed on the basis of loyalty and cooperation between the different law-making bodies.