In a bold declaration that has ignited political discourse across the nation, Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has pledged to establish a national commission to examine Wales's constitutional future, including a potential pathway to independence, should his party secure victory in the upcoming May elections. This commitment, announced during the party's spring conference in Newport, outlines a timeline of within the first 100 days of a Plaid Cymru-led Welsh government.
A Strategic Move Amidst Polling Realities
While Mr. ap Iorwerth clarified that a Plaid Cymru government would not immediately pursue an independence referendum, he emphasized the commission's role in sparking a comprehensive national conversation about Wales's governance. "We're using taxpayers' money to see if there is a better way of governing Wales," he stated in an interview with Sky News, defending the initiative against criticisms of cost. He elaborated that this effort aligns with broader goals to address healthcare challenges, bolster the economy, enhance educational standards, and implement the UK's most generous childcare offer.
Recent YouGov polling from January reveals that only 26% of adults in Wales would vote for independence in a referendum, marking the highest recorded support yet still trailing the 54% who oppose it. Despite this, Mr. ap Iorwerth argued that the commission transcends the independence debate, focusing instead on optimizing governance. "People tell me they agree with me whether they believe in independence or not. That's by the by. But they agree that we should always be investigating and pushing the boundaries of whether there's a better way of running Wales," he asserted.
Political Reactions and Electoral Dynamics
The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from Welsh Labour, with a source labeling it a "first step in the independence plan they claim to not be pursuing" and questioning its financial prudence amid discussions on child poverty funding. This underscores the deepening political divide as Wales approaches the polls on May 7.
Electorally, Plaid Cymru currently leads in the latest YouGov poll with 37% support, followed by Reform UK at 23%, the Green Party at 13%, and Labour and the Conservatives tied at 10% each. This positioning highlights the party's growing influence and sets the stage for a potentially transformative election.
Devolution Demands and Celebrity Endorsement
Beyond the independence commission, Plaid Cymru has vowed to "reset the relationship with Westminster," advocating for a devolution settlement mirroring Scotland's, including powers over justice, transport, and the Crown Estate. Mr. ap Iorwerth criticized the current dynamic, noting that Welsh Labour First Minister Eluned Morgan has faced repeated rejections in seeking further devolved powers. "We know that when Labour try to ask for something, they get nothing. They are slapped down," he remarked, dismissing the notion that a Labour UK government would favor a Welsh Labour administration as "deeply undemocratic and patronising towards Wales."
Adding star power to the campaign, Hollywood actor Michael Sheen publicly endorsed Plaid Cymru during the conference's final day, much to the delight of Mr. ap Iorwerth. When asked if Sheen might join campaign efforts, the leader enthusiastically responded, "It would be great for Michael to come out with us, he's always welcome." This endorsement could amplify the party's message and attract broader public attention in the critical weeks ahead.
As Wales prepares for the May elections, the pledges from Plaid Cymru signal a pivotal moment in the nation's political landscape, blending constitutional aspirations with practical governance reforms. Full coverage of the election results will be broadcast live on Sky News, capturing what promises to be a closely watched and consequential event.
