Leaders of nationalist parties in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have asserted that the political landscape in the United Kingdom is undergoing a rapid transformation, calling for a constitutional change that guarantees the people of the three regions the right to self-determination, coinciding with the signing of a memorandum of understanding to enhance political and economic cooperation.
“A pivotal moment” in the constitutional process
John Swinney, the Scottish National Party’s First Minister, Ron Upeyworth, the leader of the Welsh party Kemaroo, and Michelle O’Neill, the Sinn Féin’s Deputy First Minister in Northern Ireland, met during a conference in Cardiff.
The occasion marks the first time that nationalist parties have led governments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland simultaneously. Sweeney described the meeting as a “pivotal moment” in the constitutional trajectory of the United Kingdom, asserting that constitutional change is imminent.
Memorandum of Cooperation between Nationalist Parties
In a joint statement, the leaders said that the three nations have distinct histories, identities, and political traditions, affirming the right of each to self-determination through democratic means and in accordance with the will of its people.
The leaders signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening cooperation in the areas of economy, energy and European relations, stressing that cooperation between regions can provide greater economic opportunities and enhance their ability to address inequalities.
The parties criticized the economic model adopted by the British government, calling for more productive and equitable economies, and for greater use of renewable energy resources to reduce energy costs.
Calls to end the “Westminster era”
The leaders felt that Britain’s exit from the European Union had harmed their regional economies and reduced opportunities for their people, stressing their desire to strengthen relations with Europe and increase opportunities for trade, investment and cooperation.
They called on the British government to prepare to facilitate constitutional change in each region, stressing that the Westminster government has no right to obstruct the people’s right to self-determination.
Although the parties agree on this principle, their constitutional goals differ; the Scottish National Party seeks the independence of Scotland, while the CIMRO party demands the independence of Wales, and Sinn Féin calls for the reunification of Northern Ireland with the rest of Ireland.
