Statement from the First Minister

“I was pleased to meet with Prime Minister Andy Burnham to congratulate him in person on his new role. I welcomed the opportunity to begin a new chapter in the relationship between our respective governments, based on mutual respect and a shared commitment to delivering for the people we serve.

“I know that Andy Burnham shares my belief in the power of devolution to change people’s lives for the better. In that spirit, I set out the case for Wales to have parity of powers with Scotland through a new Wales Bill with an immediate emphasis on devolving policing and justice, and a fairer funding model to replace the outdated Barnett Formula.

“We discussed measures to address the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and our shared commitment to adopting a more collaborative approach to politics.

“I also set out my expectation that Number 10 North would not become Whitehall with a different postcode, and that the Prime Minister will demonstrate as much enthusiasm for empowering our Senedd as he already has done towards devolving power to the English regions.

“I look forward to further positive and productive discussions as I continue to make the case for fairness and equality for Wales and all its communities.”