Rhun ap Iorwerth demands 'new deal' for Wales ahead of Plaid
Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth writes to Prime Minister Andy Burnham demanding expanded devolved powers over policing, justice, and rail infrastructure.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Rhun ap Iorwerth sends a 2,000-word letter demanding a 'new deal' for Wales.
- Plaid Cymru won power in May 2026, ending Labour's 27-year government.
- Welsh leader seeks control over policing, justice, and rail infrastructure.
- Ap Iorwerth is scheduled to meet the prime minister later this month.
Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth has written a detailed letter to Prime Minister Andy Burnham requesting a "new deal for Wales" ahead of delivering his first conference speech as leader of Plaid Cymru in Llandudno. The correspondence, sent on Thursday and reviewed by BBC Wales, presses for substantial transfers of governing powers to Cardiff.
This political push follows Plaid Cymru's historic breakthrough victory at the Senedd election in May 2026. That electoral outcome brought the party to power for the very first time, effectively terminating Labour's 27-year tenure in government since the devolution process was first established back in 1999.
Operating without a majority of seats in Cardiff Bay, ap Iorwerth heads a minority administration that must negotiate directly with opposition Senedd members to successfully pass new legislation and state budgets. The Welsh government previously suffered a defeat on a crucial spending plan vote back in July.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
During his address to party members on Friday, ap Iorwerth is set to emphasize that the election delivered a definitive mandate from the Welsh public for tangible improvements in daily life. He will argue for extending devolution so that the Senedd and Welsh government possess equivalent constitutional and fiscal tools currently accessible to Scotland.
"This mandate includes extending devolution to enable the Senedd and the Welsh government to have the necessary tools - powers, funding and financial flexibilities - to drive the maximum improvement in outcomes for the people of Wales."
Rhun ap Iorwerth
In his extensive communication to Burnham, the Plaid leader made comprehensive arguments regarding the transfer of jurisdiction over policing, justice, rail infrastructure, and the Crown Estate. Speaking to BBC Radio Wales Breakfast, ap Iorwerth explained he is pursuing practical answers to unlock elements required for Wales to progress.
The current legislative balance in Wales highlights the delicate nature of minority governance. While Prime Minister Andy Burnham has previously stated an openness to giving fair hearings and considering police devolution, negotiations will test the federal dynamics within the United Kingdom.
Source: BBC Politics
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