Wales' first minister has urged Andy Burnham to "turn his commitment to devolution into action" and expressed hope of building a "positive and productive relationship" with the new UK government. In his first call with the new prime minister, Rhun ap Iorwerth urged him to hand Wales powers over policing, justice, rail and the Crown Estate. Downing Street said the prime minister had spoken to the leaders of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and wanted a "collaborative, practical and pragmatic" relationship with the devolved administrations. A spokesperson said closer working could help deliver "deeper devolution" and boost economic growth. The prime minister was focused on "practical measures, not constitutional changes like further referendums", the spokesperson added. Welsh Conservative Senedd leader Darren Millar called for closer working with Westminster rather than further devolution. The spokesperson said the prime minister looked forward to meeting the devolved leaders and visiting Wales soon.
Published: July 21, 2026 4:54 pm
Source: BBC — Read original