Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is holding a summit with the first ministers of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, emphasizing the need for collaborative solutions to address the United Kingdom's challenges. The meeting, which includes a visit to South Wales, aims to foster dialogue and action on issues impacting communities across the UK.
Burnham stated that answers to the UK's challenges will emerge from diverse regions and a government willing to listen and implement solutions. His focus is on securing "good jobs in every community, in every part of the UK." He is scheduled to meet with Welsh Deputy First Minister Sioned Williams during his visit.
Williams highlighted the visit as a positive example of intergovernmental cooperation. She plans to advocate for Wales's fair share of the UK government's steel fund, the introduction of an energy social tariff to aid those facing fuel poverty and high energy bills, and the resolution of high standing charges in Wales. She also stressed that as an energy-rich nation, Wales should benefit from this through job creation, stronger communities, and reduced consumer costs.
The National Economic Council, originally established by the Gordon Brown administration in 2008, has been revived by Burnham. A previous iteration of this council brought together government ministers and English local authority mayors. Downing Street has indicated that the prime minister is keen to discuss driving "good growth in every postcode across the UK" with the devolved leaders.
The Welsh government expressed anticipation for discussions on shared challenges, including fostering growth and investment in all represented nations, and providing support for families grappling with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. They also intend to pursue broader Welsh priorities with the UK government, such as fair funding and the expansion of devolution.
Plaid Cymru has been actively pressing the UK government for discussions regarding increased powers and funding for the Senedd and the Welsh government. First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth previously met with the prime minister on the sidelines of the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in July. At that time, ap Iorwerth noted it was premature to ascertain the prime minister's stance on his requests, while Downing Street affirmed a commitment to maintaining "open and ongoing dialogue" with the first minister.