Rhun ap Iorwerth urges recognition of Welsh sovereignty

Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth has called on Andy Burnham to recognize Wales as a distinct nation rather than a region of England. As the first non-Labour leader of the Senedd since devolution, ap Iorwerth emphasized that the Welsh model of devolution is fundamentally different from the regional models seen in places like Manchester.

While expressing optimism regarding initial discussions with the UK government, the First Minister voiced concerns that Westminster-based consensus might resist the transfer of further powers. Specifically, he is seeking increased control over policing and the justice system, areas where Wales currently lacks autonomy compared to other UK nations.

Additionally, ap Iorwerth indicated that his party, Plaid Cymru, would be open to cooperating with the Labour Party to prevent the rise of Reform UK, which he characterized as practicing ‘destructive politics’.