Scottish and Welsh Liberal Democrats pledge to push back against “nationalist alliance”

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton and Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds have today pledged to defend common values across the UK and stand up for public services “neglected by nationalists” as Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth holds talks with Scottish First Minister John Swinney to develop an “alliance" between the two countries.

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said:

“There are undoubtedly shared interests between Scotland and Wales but I believe we should be inspired by our shared history and striving to make these islands better, not breaking apart.

“An alliance of nationalists sworn to break up the UK will have Vladimir Putin rubbing his hands in glee.

“If our experience in Scotland is anything to go by, a Plaid Cymru government would mean Welsh education declining, a stagnant economy and power centralised in Cardiff Bay instead of in our communities.

“Next year voters in both Scotland and Wales will have a chance to express their anger and frustration after years of being let down. I am urging them to back the Liberal Democrats for change with fairness at its heart.”

Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds said:

“Liberal Democrats will always fight Wales’ corner but we will also stand up for shared values across the UK. People want a fair crack of the whip after years of neglect by Conservative and Labour governments but that doesn’t mean we have to throw away all the things we have in common.

"Whether it’s Scottish and Welsh nationalists in the SNP and Plaid, or English nationalists in Reform, the story is always the same. When nationalists get into power, they neglect public services and use their platform to divide and stir up resentment.

“Voters should back the Liberal Democrats in next year’s election and we will work night and day to bring power back to communities and deliver on education, healthcare and the cost of living.”