Welsh independence referendum an 'absolute' possibility says Plaid Cymru leader
An independence referendum was promised by Adam Price, with the former Plaid leader saying it would take place in the next five years.
However, new Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has now ruled out holding a referendum on Wales leaving the UK in the first term of a Plaid-led Welsh government, when speaking to the BBC's Walescast this week.
But Mr ap Iorwerth told the PA news agency a referendum could form part of a Plaid government's platform for the future, once it has built trust with the Welsh electorate.
Mr ap Iorwerth, speaking to PA, said: "The key thing is it's up to the people of Wales. And I've many times said that I would have independence tomorrow, but it's not what I think that matters,'
'It's what the people of Wales believe, and I absolutely think we can have that referendum and set us off on a different direction as a country within our lifetime,' he added.
Rhun ap Iorwerth has said a referendum for Welsh independence could form part of a Plaid government's platform for the future. (Image: Ben Birchall/PA) Should Plaid Cymru pursue such a referendum in the future, it would be likely to need support from other parties in Cardiff Bay and at Westminster, which is unlikely to be forthcoming.
Talk of a referendum for Welsh independence brought on by a Plaid-led Welsh government comes after the most recent poll results were released for the upcoming Senedd election (set to take place in 2026).
Plaid is projected to be the largest party in the Senedd following the outcome of the election with around 30% of votes and 35 seats in the Siambr, according to a YouGov poll published on Tuesday (May 6).
Plaid Cymru is the only credible pro Wales government on offer in 2026. 🏴 pic.twitter.com/hB55uw89Bx
— Plaid Cymru 🏴 (@Plaid_Cymru) May 7, 2025
Nigel Farage's Reform UK would be the second-largest party, with 25% of votes, according to the poll.
Plaid would focus on 'deep problems within the NHS in Wales', as well as education, economic stagnation and poverty, should it be the party that leads the next Welsh government, Mr ap Iorwerth said.
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When is the next Senedd election in Wales? The exact date you can vote
Plaid responds to Welsh Government NHS report
The next Senedd election will take place on May 7, 2026.
It will see Welsh voters use a new proportional system to choose their representatives.
Some 49 seats will be required for an outright majority, with the Senedd being expanded to 96 members.
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