Labour back Plaid Cymru amendment rejecting the UK Government’s EU withdrawal agreement

Labour have backed a Plaid Cymru amendment rejecting the UK Government’s EU withdrawal agreement and political declaration.

The Senedd voted 34-16 for a new relationship based on UK membership of Single Market and Customs Union.

“Wales is the first parliament to vote on Theresa May’s Brexit agreement – and the first to reject it,” Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price said.

The amendment:

• Rejected the UK Government Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration
• Called for the UK to stay in the European Single Market and Customs Union
• Called on the UK Government to extend Article 50

The Senedd, however, rejected a Plaid Cymru motion calling for a People’s Vote.

Labour leadership hopefuls Vaughan Gething and Eluned Morgan, who had campaigned on the need for a People’s Vote, both voted against.

Education Secretary Kirsty Williams, and Labour AMs Joyce Watson and Lynne Neagle backed the People’s Vote amendment.

Speaking after the vote, Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price said that they were “glad” Labour had worked with them “at a cross-party level”.

“It means that the Senedd has tonight spoken with a clear voice to say that we do not support the Prime Minister’s Brexit deal,” he said.

“We were disappointed however that Labour did not support our People’s vote amendment.

“We hope they realise before it’s late that the only way the Brexit impasse in Westminster can ultimately be resolved is through a People’s Vote, and that they will join Plaid Cymru in campaigning passionately to let the people have the final say on the way forward.”