Plaid Cymru has terminated its cooperation agreement with Welsh Labour in the Senedd with immediate effect, dealing a fresh blow to First Minister Vaughan Gething. The three-year deal, which was due to run until December 2024, was ended by Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth on Friday.
Mr ap Iorwerth cited “deep concerns” over donations to Mr Gething’s leadership campaign, the sacking of minister Hannah Blythyn, and the Welsh Government’s approach to elements of the agreement, including the delay of Council Tax Reform. He said he was proud of the deal’s achievements, such as free school meals and expanded childcare, but stressed the need to hold the government to account.
The collapse follows claims by Conservative Senedd leader Andrew RT Davies that a no-confidence motion against Mr Gething could be imminent. Mr Davies dismissed Plaid’s move as “meaning nothing” after three years of collaboration, accusing the party of diverting resources from people’s priorities.
Mr Gething expressed disappointment, stating the agreement was about “mature politics” and thanking the designated Plaid members for their work. He has faced sustained pressure over a £200,000 donation from a man convicted of environmental offences, and the sacking of Ms Blythyn over a leaked message. The first minister denies any wrongdoing.
