Eluned Morgan, the first minister of Wales since last summer, has criticized Welsh Labour MPs in Westminster for not standing up for Wales, as reported by BBC Wales. The discontent among Welsh Labour Senedd politicians is due to several decisions made by the UK government, including cuts to welfare and tax hikes. When asked to comment, Welsh Labour did not immediately respond.
The confrontation between Eluned Morgan and Welsh Labour MPs took place in a meeting earlier this week, and according to sources, the first minister’s remarks did not sit well with the attendees. As the 2026 Senedd election approaches, concerns arise about the alignment of Welsh Labour with UK government policies, especially regarding welfare reforms. Eluned Morgan has refrained from openly criticizing the plans, maintaining a reserved stance so far.
The relationship between UK Labour and Welsh Labour members has faced challenges over recent welfare reforms, cuts to winter fuel payments, and increases in employers’ National Insurance contributions. These decisions have raised concerns in Cardiff Bay, particularly due to the lack of a Wales-specific impact assessment by the UK government. Labour politicians in Wales, as well as Welsh Finance Secretary Mark Drakeford, have expressed worries about the financial implications of these changes on Wales.
Opposition parties are skeptical about Eluned Morgan’s ability to reposition herself and Welsh Labour amidst these challenges, with some suggesting that any move would be too little, too late. The first minister has also been advocating for more rail infrastructure spending, control of the Crown Estate, and fair treatment for Wales in UK government steel industry plans. Tensions between Labour in Wales and Westminster further complicate the political landscape as the countdown to the next Senedd election continues
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