# UK nationalist parties sign Cardiff pact for self-rule

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/uk-nationalist-parties-self-determination-pact
> Updated: 2026-09-15T00:26:00.000Z. Sources: 219. Developments: 2.

Nationalist leaders from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have formalized a memorandum of understanding, signed in Cardiff, to demand the right to hold independence referendums and pursue greater self-determination. The agreement was signed by leaders including John Swinney (SNP), Rhun ap Iorwerth (Plaid Cymru), Michelle O’Neill (Sinn Féin), and Mary Lou McDonald (Sinn Féin).

The pact emphasizes a commitment to increased cooperation across four primary sectors: the economy, renewable energy, relations with Europe, and international cooperation. While the parties maintain distinct constitutional objectives—with Scotland and Wales seeking independence and Northern Ireland pursuing reunification with the Republic of Ireland—they expressed a shared interest in rejoining the European Union and moving away from the current Westminster-led model. The memorandum asserts that “the time of Westminster is coming to an end” and urges the United Kingdom government to prepare for significant constitutional shifts.

This movement follows recent elections that placed pro-independence parties in power across these three nations for the first time. While the agreement does not mandate immediate separation or set specific dates for votes, it establishes a coordinated front to pressure the UK government. In response to these developments, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has rejected the possibility of a new Scottish independence referendum, stating that the Labour Party does not support such moves and will instead focus on economic growth. Additionally, the summit follows comments from US President Donald Trump, who expressed support for a united Ireland during a visit to Dublin.

## Claims

- British Prime Minister Andy Burnham indicated he might authorize a new Scottish independence referendum if there is a clear consensus. (disputed by 30 sources)
- British Prime Minister Andy Burnham stated that a new Scottish independence referendum is off limits and would not occur before the next general election. (disputed by 8 sources)
- The memorandum will cover four areas: economy, energy, Europe and international cooperation, and self-determination. (corroborated by 50 sources)
- Leaders from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are meeting in Cardiff to sign a joint declaration demanding the right to hold independence referendums. (corroborated by 43 sources)
- For the first time, pro-independence parties hold power in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland simultaneously. (corroborated by 40 sources)
- The summit in Cardiff will include Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald. (corroborated by 33 sources)
- Scottish First Minister John Swinney stated that Westminster must prepare for a future beyond the United Kingdom. (corroborated by 32 sources)
- U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for a united Ireland during a visit to Dublin. (corroborated by 26 sources)
- Michelle O'Neill will participate in the Cardiff summit as a leader of Sinn Féin. (corroborated by 22 sources)
- Plaid Cymru is the majority party in the Welsh parliament. (corroborated by 13 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-15: Nationalist leaders sign pact for constitutional change

Leaders from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland signed a pact in Cardiff to cooperate on economic and energy issues while calling for constitutional change and greater self-determination.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/scotland-wales-and-northern-ireland-leaders-sign-independence-memorandum

### 2026-09-13: Nationalist leaders sign Cardiff pact demanding independence referendums

Nationalist leaders from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland signed a pact in Cardiff demanding the right to self-determination and independence referendums, focusing on economy, energy, and Europe.

216 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/scotland-wales-and-northern-ireland-leaders-seek-independence

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Cite as: UK nationalist parties sign Cardiff pact for self-rule. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/uk-nationalist-parties-self-determination-pact