First Minister seeks new devolution deal for Wales
Rhun ap Iorwerth has written to Prime Minister Andy Burnham requesting greater powers for the Welsh government.
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First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth has formally requested a new devolution deal for Wales from Prime Minister Andy Burnham. The request, detailed in a letter sent on Thursday and seen by BBC Wales, seeks the transfer of additional powers and fiscal tools to the Welsh government in Cardiff.
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In his correspondence, Mr ap Iorwerth argues that the recent Senedd election delivered a clear mandate for change, requiring the Welsh government to have the necessary instruments to improve public services and grow the economy. He stated that Wales should benefit from the same constitutional and fiscal tools already available in Scotland. The letter specifically calls for the devolution of powers over policing and justice, rail infrastructure, and the Crown Estate, alongside funding arrangements that are fair and reflect Wales' demographic and economic realities.
Mr ap Iorwerth is scheduled to address Plaid Cymru members in Llandudno on Friday. This speech will follow his party's success in the May Senedd election, which saw Plaid Cymru gain power for the first time since devolution began in 1999. However, the party leads a minority administration, necessitating cooperation with other Members of the Senedd to pass legislation and budgets. The government experienced a setback in July when it lost a significant vote on its spending plans.
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Prime Minister Andy Burnham has previously indicated his willingness to consider proposals from the Welsh First Minister. He stated that he would "give a fair hearing" to anything put to him and expressed openness to the idea of granting the Welsh government control over policing. Mr ap Iorwerth is expected to meet the Prime Minister, along with the first ministers of Scotland and Northern Ireland, later this month.
Questions this report answers
+What is Rhun ap Iorwerth requesting from the Prime Minister?
Rhun ap Iorwerth has requested a new devolution deal for Wales. This includes the transfer of additional powers and fiscal tools to the Welsh government, such as control over policing, justice, rail infrastructure, and the Crown Estate.
+When was the letter sent and when will Mr ap Iorwerth address his party?
The letter to Prime Minister Andy Burnham was sent on Thursday. Rhun ap Iorwerth is scheduled to address Plaid Cymru members in Llandudno on Friday.
+What is the current political situation for the Welsh government?
The Welsh government, led by Plaid Cymru, is a minority administration. It lost a key vote on its spending plans in July, indicating the need for cooperation with other parties to pass legislation.
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