Minister stands up for UK Labour government's performance in Wales

A senior UK minister has defended the government's performance in Wales following criticism from Labour members of the Senedd. Several backbench Labour MSs accused leader Keir Starmer of undermining devolution by making decisions for Wales without consulting ministers in Cardiff Bay.

Darren Jones, chief secretary to the prime minister, highlighted that Wales had received a "record-breaking" funding package. He emphasized that both the UK and Welsh Labour governments had maintained a "clear record of success" over the past 18 months, delivering tangible results for Wales.

The criticism came in a letter signed by senior Labour Senedd members and former Welsh ministers, which described the use of the Pride in Place schemeproviding councils with funding for town centre improvementsas a "constitutional outrage" for bypassing the Welsh government, which normally oversees local government funding.

Some members of Labour's Senedd group and Welsh MPs have strongly criticised the letter, while Plaid Cymru described Welsh Labour as being in "complete disarray."

Jones made his remarks at a news conference following the British-Irish Council summit, hosted by the Welsh government in Cardiff. He pointed to initiatives such as the establishment of new AI growth zones, construction of small modular nuclear reactors at Wylfa in Anglesey, and additional rail investments as examples of recent achievements.

He also praised the Pride in Place program, noting that the funding would complement the work of the Welsh government to renew communities across the country. "We are proud of our support for local communities and the difference it is making in Wales," he said.

Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan, who joined Jones at the news conference, stressed that the Welsh government has always maintained a clear position and collaborates closely with the UK government. She cited the launch of the UK child benefit poverty strategy in Wales as a demonstration of ongoing cooperation.

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth criticised Welsh Labour, claiming the party is in "complete disarray" and accusing both Labour governments of prioritizing party interests over the needs of Wales.

The British-Irish Council, established in 1999 under the Good Friday Agreement, includes governments from the UK, Northern Ireland, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, the Isle of Man, Jersey, and Guernsey.

Author: Grace Ellison