First Minister makes case for Wales in meeting with Prime Minister

First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones welcomed Prime Minister Theresa May to Wales yesterday.

In his initial meeting with Theresa May, the First Minister called for fair funding and a proper, lasting devolution settlement for Wales.

During the meeting, the First Minister stressed the importance of remaining focused on safeguarding the long-term future for the steel industry in Wales.

The First Minister also set out the importance of Wales playing a full and active role in the forthcoming EU negotiations, and called on the Prime Minister to guarantee that the current levels of funding Wales receives from the EU will remain post Brexit.

The First Minister said:

“Today’s meeting with Prime Minister Theresa May was a constructive and positive start to our working relationship.

“It was a useful opportunity to talk openly with the Prime Minister about the full role Wales must play in the forthcoming negotiations about the UK’s exit from the EU. I once again called for the UK Government to guarantee that the £600m of invaluable funding we currently receive from the EU will continue to flow to Wales after the UK’s exit takes place.

“My immediate focus remains on securing a sustainable future for Wales’ steel industry and I am encouraged by Mrs May’s commitment to supporting the industry. We have agreed to continue to work together to do all we can to do ensure the Tata’s UK plants remain open and Welsh jobs are secured.”