Plaid Cymru Leader Vows Independence from Westminster in Manifesto Launch
Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth launched the party’s manifesto in Wrexham, pledging to end subservience to Westminster if the nationalists win the upcoming Senedd elections. Positioning the party as a viable alternative to Labour and Reform UK, ap Iorwerth emphasized governing with urgency and humility. Key policy priorities include reducing NHS waiting lists, implementing universal childcare, eradicating child poverty through new payments, and establishing a business-led national development agency. The manifesto also demands greater fiscal autonomy, justice devolution, and control over the Crown Estate. Although Plaid Cymru has ruled out an immediate independence referendum, it plans to strengthen ties with Ireland and establish a national school of governance. Ap Iorwerth dismissed concerns regarding the rise of Reform UK, noting that both Plaid Cymru and Labour refuse to coalition with them, leaving the nationalists as the primary contender for government formation. Polls indicate a tight race between Plaid Cymru and Reform UK, with Labour trailing significantly. The party aims to address Wales's historic underfunding and improve public services, asserting readiness to tackle the difficult legacy left by previous administrations.
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Plaid Cymru Leader Vows Independence from Westminster in Manifesto Launch
Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth launched the party’s manifesto in Wrexham, pledging to end subservience to Westminster if the nationalists win the upcoming Senedd elections. Positioning the party as a viable alternative to Labour and Reform UK, ap Iorwerth emphasized governing with urgency and humility. Key policy priorities include reducing NHS waiting lists, implementing universal childcare, eradicating child poverty through new payments, and establishing a business-led national development agency. The manifesto also demands greater fiscal autonomy, justice devolution, and control over the Crown Estate. Although Plaid Cymru has ruled out an immediate independence referendum, it plans to strengthen ties with Ireland and establish a national school of governance. Ap Iorwerth dismissed concerns regarding the rise of Reform UK, noting that both Plaid Cymru and Labour refuse to coalition with them, leaving the nationalists as the primary contender for government formation. Polls indicate a tight race between Plaid Cymru and Reform UK, with Labour trailing significantly. The party aims to address Wales's historic underfunding and improve public services, asserting readiness to tackle the difficult legacy left by previous administrations.
The Guardian