Arabic version: رئيس وزراء ويلز يسعى إلى اتفاق جديد بشأن الصلاحيات

According to BBC News, First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth has asked Prime Minister Andy Burnham for “a new deal for Wales” before addressing Plaid Cymru’s conference in Llandudno. The Plaid Cymru leader wrote to Burnham on Thursday, seeking further powers for Cardiff five months after his party won the Senedd election.

Ap Iorwerth leads a minority administration, meaning it must work with opposition Members of the Senedd to pass laws and budgets. The government lost a key vote on its spending plans in July. Plaid’s election victory ended Labour’s 27 years in power in Wales since devolution began in 1999.

In his conference speech, ap Iorwerth is expected to say the election gave Wales a mandate for change and for extending devolution. He will argue that the Senedd and Welsh government need powers, funding and financial flexibility to improve public services and grow the economy. He says Wales should have the same constitutional and fiscal tools already available in Scotland.

His 2,000-word letter makes the case for transferring responsibility for policing and justice, rail infrastructure and the Crown Estate outside Wales. It also seeks funding arrangements that are fair, needs-based and reflect Wales’ demographic and economic circumstances. Ap Iorwerth said he wanted “practical answers” and was willing to consider a gradual approach to devolving the Crown Estate.

Burnham has previously said he would give a fair hearing to proposals from the Welsh first minister and has said he is open to Welsh control over policing. Ap Iorwerth is expected to meet Burnham with the first ministers of Scotland and Northern Ireland at the end of the month. A UK government spokesperson said its focus was working with the Welsh government to empower local leaders and communities to deliver growth and jobs.