Full Breakdown
Eluned Morgan Advocates for Closer EU Ties Amidst Brexit Fallout
3/22/2026, 8:21:04 PM
Shifting Perspectives on Brexit
Eluned Morgan, the Labour First Minister of Wales, has expressed her strong desire for Wales to maintain the closest possible relationship with the European Union (EU). In a recent interview on BBC Politics Wales, Morgan identified herself as an "unapologetic" "Euro-enthusiast," emphasizing that leaving the EU has had detrimental effects on Wales, particularly in terms of exports and funding. She stated, "Leaving the EU has not been beneficial to Wales... We've been cut in exports which affects jobs. We've been cut in terms of funding. We were promised we wouldn't be a penny worse off."
Morgan's comments come in response to Labour Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, who suggested that the Labour Party should campaign to rejoin the EU in the next general election. This marks a notable shift in the party's tone regarding Brexit, especially as the UK grapples with economic challenges. Despite acknowledging the negative impact of Brexit, Morgan refrained from explicitly advocating for a Labour promise to rejoin the EU.
Broader Labour Party Sentiments
Morgan's views align with a growing sentiment among senior Labour figures regarding the UK's relationship with the EU. UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting recently remarked that it is challenging to achieve the economic growth promised by the government outside the EU. He expressed relief that the conversation around Brexit is becoming more open, stating, "I'm glad that Brexit is a problem whose name we now dare speak."
Additionally, UK Justice Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy has noted that it is "self-evident" that Brexit has harmed the economy. He pointed to the economic benefits that Turkey has experienced from its customs agreement with the EU, suggesting that similar arrangements could be beneficial for the UK.
Historical Context and Voter Sentiment
In the 2016 Brexit referendum, 52.5% of Welsh voters supported leaving the EU. This decision significantly influenced the political landscape, with Boris Johnson's Conservative Party gaining a substantial number of Welsh seats in the 2019 general election under the banner of "Get Brexit Done." However, the subsequent economic challenges have prompted renewed discussions within the Labour Party about the implications of Brexit and the potential for a revised relationship with the EU.
Criticism and Opposition
While Morgan and other Labour figures have begun to openly critique the consequences of Brexit, there remains a divide within the party and among the electorate. Some members of the Labour Party may still support the original Brexit decision, reflecting the complexities of public opinion on this contentious issue.
Official Statements & Responses
Eluned Morgan's statements reflect a broader acknowledgment within the Labour Party of the economic difficulties stemming from Brexit. The party's leadership appears to be grappling with how to address these challenges while considering the sentiments of their constituents who previously supported leaving the EU.
Verbatim Quotes
- "I am absolutely unapologetic that I always want the closest possible relationship." — Eluned Morgan, Labour First Minister of Wales
- "Leaving the EU has not been beneficial to Wales." — Eluned Morgan, Labour First Minister of Wales
- "I'm glad that Brexit is a problem whose name we now dare speak." — Wes Streeting, UK Health Secretary
- "It is self-evident that Brexit has damaged the economy." — David Lammy, UK Justice Secretary and Deputy Prime Minister
