Wales’ first minister has cautioned Andy Burnham that Wales should not be viewed as a region within England, emphasizing the need for deeper respect for the nation’s distinct status in any devolution discussions.
Rhun ap Iorwerth, who leads Plaid Cymru and serves as Wales’ first minister after his party’s electoral victory earlier this year, expressed cautious optimism about engaging with the new UK government but voiced concerns over potential resistance to transferring additional powers.
During an interview, ap Iorwerth indicated his party would consider cooperating with Labour to prevent Reform UK from gaining influence, citing ideological differences with Nigel Farage’s party.
Ap Iorwerth assumed office in May, following Plaid Cymru’s historic win in Senedd elections, ending over a century of Labour dominance in Welsh politics.
He has been advocating for expanded authority over key areas such as policing and justice—sectors where Wales remains the only UK nation without full control.
While acknowledging Burnham’s experience as Greater Manchester mayor as valuable, ap Iorwerth stressed that Wales’ situation differs significantly:
“He clearly grasps how devolution can benefit Manchester, and our talks have been positive and constructive. However, he must recognize that devolution means something very different for Wales. We are a sovereign nation—not a region of England—and we have unique needs.”
After meeting with UK officials in London, ap Iorwerth noted that despite assurances from Burnham against undermining devolution, he remains skeptical about institutional pushback regarding law enforcement and judicial powers.
Earlier this year, Welsh Secretary Stephen Kinnock expressed doubts about devolving policing responsibilities. Ap Iorwerth countered:
“There is overwhelming evidence supporting the devolution of policing and justice to Wales. Study after study recommends this move as essential. It’s unacceptable that Andy Burnham wielded more authority over policing as Manchester’s mayor than I hold as Wales’ first minister.”
“That said, Burnham appears genuinely open to change. Yet I’m mindful that pressures within his circles may resist such shifts, much like previous Labour administrations.”
Plaid Cymru holds the largest number of seats (43) in the newly expanded 96-member Senedd, while Reform UK emerged as the official opposition with 34 members—a dramatic rise from just two defectors two years ago.
Despite these dynamics, ap Iorwerth reiterated his commitment to opposing Reform UK’s policies, describing them as antithetical to principles of unity and social responsibility.
When asked whether Plaid might align with Labour to counter a potential Reform-led government at either level, he responded affirmatively:
“This isn’t about excluding individuals; it’s about rejecting a divisive political ideology. Cooperation with Labour aligns with our broader goal of advancing progressive values.”
Sign up to First Edition
Our morning email breaks down the key stories of the day, telling you what’s happening and why it matters
after newsletter promotion
Speaking during a press conference marking the start of the new Senedd term, ap Iorwerth highlighted economic challenges facing Wales, including real-term cuts to public spending.
Asked if his messaging risked echoing Keir Starmer’s downbeat tone, ap Iorwerth clarified his stance:
“I hope not—that reflects one approach taken by the previous government. We’re committed to a different path, grounded in optimism and principle.”
On Monday, ap Iorwerth will meet with Nicola Sturgeon’s successor John Swinney and Sinn Féin’s Michelle O’Neill in Cardiff, prompting criticism from some quarters, including a Telegraph columnist labeling the trio a “threat to the Union.”
Responding to such claims, ap Iorwerth smiled:
“That couldn’t be further from my intentions. My aim isn’t to dismantle the UK—it’s to strengthen Wales. Unity comes through empowerment, not subordination.”
He affirmed that Wales is undergoing a “constitutional evolution,” ultimately aiming for independence, though timelines remain undefined:
“Our future lies in the hands of the Welsh people—and they’ll decide when that moment arrives.”
Also Read
- Conor Benn’s Rival Slams Him On X After Highlight-Reel TKO Loss
- Indonesian Rescue Teams Hunt for 140 Missing After Ferry Encounters Severe Weather
- Swedish Company Innovates with Retired Wind Turbines: From Tiny Houses to Alpine Skis
- Fresh Attack Report in Strait of Hormuz Raises Concerns Over Oil Supplies
