First minister demands ‘new deal’ for Wales, before Plaid Cymru conference

[New Deal Called for Wales as Chief Minister Calls for Renewal Before Plaid Cymru Conference]

Ap Iorwerth hosted the pro‑independence first ministers of Scotland and Northern Ireland in Cardiff last month and jointly declared that “Westminster’s time is coming to an end”.

In a 2,000‑word letter to Burnham, Ap Iorwerth advanced a detailed proposal to devolve policing and justice responsibilities, rail infrastructure, and the Crown Estate, external to Wales.

He also sought fair, needs‑based funding arrangements that account for Wales’ demographics and economic realities.

He asserted that Wales’ constitutional settlement must continue evolving to enhance democratic accountability, stimulate growth, bolster public services, and improve community outcomes.

During an interview with BBC Radio Wales Breakfast, Ap Iorwerth emphasized the need for practical solutions to guide Wales forward.

He acknowledged possible practical obstacles to the devolution of the Crown Estate and expressed willingness to explore a phased implementation that avoids being driven solely by ideology.

He also proposed allocating surplus Welsh government funds—gained through increased UK‑wide social‑care spending—to enhance social care services in Wales.

Labour leader Burnham pledged to eliminate the triple pension lock from 2030 to finance a new national care service.

Social care remains a Welsh government competency; its expenditure decisions rest with its ministers, and both Plaid Cymru and Burnslam will contest elections before this policy becomes law.

“When Boris Johnson was describing his plans that would have led to a consequential [from social care]”, Ap Iorwerth said he was willing to apply the same strategy when presenting next steps.

“I would adopt the same approach”, the First Minister reiterated during a press briefing.

Ap Iorwerth described the Prime Minister’s initiative as a positive direction, but cautioned that the results are still uncertain.

Ap Iorwerth is scheduled to convene with the Prime Minister together with the Scotland and Northern Ireland prime ministers ahead of the month’s deadline.

Burnham had previously indicated openness to granting the Welsh government control over policing.

He further stated that he must respect the other UK nation governments and would provide a fair hearing to any proposals submitted.

A UK government spokesperson said, “Our focus is on building a stronger and fairer Wales within a fairer United Kingdom.”

Source link