Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish leaders to discuss UK exit

Rhun ap Iorwerth (pictured), John Swinney and Michelle O’Neill will discuss independence from the UK for their respective countries <i>(Image: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire)</i>
Rhun ap Iorwerth (pictured), John Swinney and Michelle O’Neill will discuss independence from the UK for their respective countries (Image: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire)
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The First Ministers of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will discuss the future of independence for their respective countries when they meet on Monday (September 14).

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth, Scottish National Party leader John Swinney and Sinn Féin vice president Michelle O’Neill will discuss shared interests in Cardiff.

Mr ap Iorwerth told the BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg that the talks would cover areas of common ground as well as differences.

He said: "What we don’t [have in common] is we have distinct nations with our own trajectories and our own priorities, but there are areas on which we see it very, very important to cooperate, as in Scotland on child poverty, for example, Northern Ireland on the economics of renewable energy."

Alongside that, he highlighted the shared desire for a "different attitude from UK government" on issues such as constitutional reform and fair funding.

Mr ap Iorwerth said: "It could more acutely be around fair funding, making sure that resource is shared in a way that is equitable, that feels fair, that we have the powers to build a future for the people that we represent."

He expressed a wish to gain greater control over natural resources, policing and justice.

Mr ap Iorwerth said: "We can work together as first ministers across these islands I think in a positive way for the people we represent whilst also absolutely reflecting on the fact that we have differences between us."

"There could be no clearer sign that the status quo is not sustainable"

The meeting follows comments from Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who suggested to MPs that he would authorise another Scottish referendum if there were a "clear consensus" in favour of one, The Telegraph reports.

John Swinney claimed Andy Burnham was “facing up to the idea that he will go down in history as the final prime minister of the United Kingdom”. (Image: Jane Barlow/PA Wire)

Scottish First Minister Mr Swinney claimed Mr Burnham was “facing up to the idea that he will go down in history as the final prime minister of the United Kingdom”.

He said: "For the first time ever, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are led by pro-independence first ministers.

"There could be no clearer sign that the status quo is not sustainable – and that Westminster must prepare for a post-UK future."

He continued: "Tomorrow in Cardiff, I am looking forward to discussing a better future with partners from across these islands – and that only comes with the fresh start of independence."

It is understood that the three first ministers will use the summit to sign a joint declaration asserting their respective nations’ right to self-determination.

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