Welsh secretary Jo Stevens to leave job under Andy Burnham

Welsh secretary Jo Stevens to leave job under Andy Burnham

Jo Stevens has announced her departure from the position of Secretary of State for Wales as Andy Burnham prepares to reveal his team for the prime ministerial role. The Cardiff East MP shared the news via X, expressing pride in her contributions during her time in government.

Throughout her tenure, Stevens encountered criticism from certain members within Welsh Labour who felt she did not advocate strongly enough for increased powers for the Welsh government. Despite this, she highlighted that Wales experienced its largest-ever budget allocation for public services since the establishment of devolution under her watch.

At present, there is no official word on who will succeed Stevens in her role. First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth emphasized that whoever takes on the position should be someone committed to respecting and supporting the effective functioning of devolution. Though ap Iorwerth has not yet spoken with Burnham, discussions are planned to take place.

Ap Iorwerth also sees the arrival of a new prime minister as a chance to reset the relationship between Cardiff and London. He pointed out that Sir Keir Starmer showed limited interest in devolution and Welsh affairs but expressed optimism that Burnham’s background, which includes an understanding and appreciation for devolution, might foster a better working dynamic moving forward

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