Autumn 2014
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The Welsh Nation Change is Coming Leanne Wood AM, Plaid Cymru Leader
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’m sure everyone in Plaid Cymru feels disappointed at the outcome of the Scottish referendum. Many of you worked tirelessly in support of the Yes campaign, both in Scotland and here in Wales. The will of the people of Scotland has to be respected. It is clear, however, that the United Kingdom has changed forever – it cannot be business as usual with dictat after dictat from Westminster. Wales will not settle for a devolution settlement which is third or even second class. We must demand equality with Scotland. During the referendum campaign, the London-based parties indicated there would be a positive change of pace for Wales in terms of getting the powers we need. That needs to happen with no excuses and no rowing back from that pledge. The UK is no longer fit for purpose in the 21st century. Neither is Wales’ devolution settlement. The time has come for Wales to move away from the old process of devolution with piecemeal changes every few years. Every format of devolution to date has been found wanting. The majority of powers need to be in the hands of the people of Wales:- and there is broad agreement in that. Plaid Cymru remains sceptical about the promises of new powers made during the final days of the campaign. Offers made to Scotland should also come to Wales. Anything less would be unacceptable. Wales needs a lasting self-
government settlement. That means being at the forefront of discussions now. We have acted as a spectator nation, picking up scraps from the Westminster table. That must now end. Instead of accepting crumbs from Westminster, we must demand the settlement Wales needs and deserves. Self government for Wales should mean that all responsibilities rest with the people of Wales. It should be up to people what powers we wish to share with others. Plaid Cymru’s immediate priority is to lead a government which builds the economy, develops the national institutions that Scotland already has including a legal system and financial powers and has powers to write our own constitution. We want Wales to be in a position where we too can have a choice about whether we want Wales to become an independent state. Plaid Cymru’s aim is to become a party of government and secure the powers we need so that we can fundamentally transform the Welsh economy and equalise our society. We will campaign and work at all times for other positive changes in the time before independence. Plaid Cymru believes Wales has the potential to be a successful nation. We also believe that we can build an inclusive and confident
Wales to get there. We contend that a majority of the people of Wales want to see us take more control of our own affairs. The remarkable democratic awakening in Scotland was impressive. Tens of thousands of people in Scotland registered to vote for the first time. The turnout of 85% was unprecedented. Can we bottle that in Wales? Can we show people that they have a voice and that they can use it to good effect through the ballot box to make changes and improve their life? That is our challenge. Plaid Cymru will continue to represent the best interests of Wales as we enter a period of decentralisation.
But be in no doubt: Change is coming.