Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has expressed his shock and sadness following the sudden death of Clare Drakeford, wife of Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford. In a statement, Sir Keir said: 'On behalf of the whole Labour Party, I send our deepest condolences to Mark and all the family.'
The Welsh government announced Mrs Drakeford's death on Saturday. In the first full Senedd meeting since her passing, Presiding Officer Elin Jones led a moment's silence, describing the First Minister and his family as 'in our hearts and prayers'.
Business Minister Lesley Griffiths said Mr Drakeford would be grateful for the condolences offered by Members of the Senedd. Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies extended his party's sympathy, calling Mrs Drakeford 'kind and compassionate' and noting the couple's dedication to each other.
Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price said it was 'difficult to comprehend' the blow to the First Minister. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also offered his 'deepest condolences', writing on social media: 'I know how committed Mark and Clare were to each other. I can't imagine the pain Mark and his family will now be feeling.'
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Mr Drakeford had spoken of the 'difficult days' when his wife and mother fell ill with the virus, and had lived separately in a garden building to protect his vulnerable family. He had also previously expressed hesitation about running for First Minister due to the potential impact on his family.
