SF to join Welsh, Scottish leaders for independence talks
Leaders from Sinn Féin, the SNP, and Plaid Cymru have signed a memorandum of understanding to coordinate efforts toward independence from the United Kingdom. The group aims to challenge the current Westminster economic model and advocate for their respective nations' future within the European Union.
Why it matters
This represents a formalization of cooperation between nationalist movements in the UK's devolved nations, potentially increasing political pressure on the British government.
The leaders of Sinn Féin, the SNP, and Plaid Cymru have declared that "Westminster's time is coming to an end" in a joint agreement aimed at putting pressure on Downing Street to hold referendums on independence.
The first ministers of the UK's three devolved nations - SNP leader John Swinney, Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth and Sinn Féin leader in Northern Ireland Michelle O'Neill - signed the memorandum of understanding during a meeting in Cardiff this morning.
Along with Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald, the leaders called on the British government to "prepare for, plan and facilitate constitutional change".
The group, who met in their capacity as party leaders - rather than as officials in their respective governments, also stated their ambitions for partnership around the economy, energy and international co-operation.
The agreement says: "The political landscape across these islands is changing.
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