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PM rules out independence referendum powers for Welsh government

The Prime Minister has stated that the Welsh government will not be granted powers to hold an independence referendum, arguing that Westminster must have a say on such a significant issue.

  • The Prime Minister has ruled out giving the Welsh government powers to hold an independence referendum.
  • Wales First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth had previously indicated he would seek such powers.
  • The Prime Minister is open to discussing the Welsh government's "Cynnal" plans for a £10 weekly payment to certain children.

The Prime Minister has ruled out handing powers to the Welsh government to hold an independence referendum. He stated that other UK nations do not possess such powers and that a different arrangement for Wales could not be created.

He added that the decision should be made jointly with Westminster, emphasising that the UK Parliament must have a "say on an issue of that magnitude." This follows Wales First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth's statement last week that he would seek powers for an independence referendum, though he ruled out holding one before the next Senedd election in May 2030.

Separately, the Prime Minister indicated he is open to considering the Welsh government's "Cynnal" plans. These plans propose trialling a £10 weekly payment for 15,000 children under six in households already receiving universal credit. This would require agreement from the Department for Work and Pensions and HMRC to prevent the payment from being taxed or other UK government benefits from being reduced.

The Prime Minister also addressed earlier comments from August regarding giving the Welsh government control over policing, stating on Friday that it was "about looking at the case" rather than holding "a fixed view."

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