Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan has issued a stark warning to voters, arguing that the upcoming election presents a clear choice between continued investment and a risky gamble on the nation's future.
A Stark Choice for Wales
In an exclusive statement, Morgan acknowledged the persistent challenges facing many in Wales, where working hard does not always shield families from financial worry or prevent the decline of local high streets. She stated that after years of Conservative-led austerity, her government is now channelling record funding into public services. However, she admitted that for numerous families, the pace of improvement still feels frustratingly slow.
The First Minister positioned the May election as a critical juncture, asserting it is not a simple contest between change and the status quo. "It's about whether we keep driving forward now we've turned the corner leaving austerity and cuts behind, or gamble with what we've built," she declared.
Investment Versus Anger
Morgan directly criticised opposition parties, singling out Reform UK for particular scrutiny. She accused them of "trading in anger" and offering only cuts and chaos, which she claimed would jeopardise vital public services. "Reform will tell you that the whole country is broken, but offer no real solution other than raging against the system," Morgan said. "We know there is unfairness in the world right now, and while Reform are pointing fingers and placing blame on others we're taking action."
She contrasted this with what she described as Welsh Labour's distinct and proactive approach, highlighting policies such as free prescriptions, universal primary school free meals, the Real Living Wage for care workers, and bringing railways into public ownership.
The Foundations of a New Chapter
The First Minister painted an optimistic picture of Wales's economic potential, arguing that 25 years of devolution has built the necessary skills, infrastructure, and confidence to attract major investment. She revealed that since she became First Minister, a remarkable £16 billion of business funding has been secured for Wales, following the nation's most successful Investment Summit.
This investment, she detailed, is translating into tangible projects and opportunities across the country: major energy schemes in the north, an AI growth zone in the south, advanced manufacturing in the east, and renewable energy projects off the western coast. "These aren't numbers on a page," Morgan emphasised. "They are jobs, apprenticeships and opportunities arriving in Welsh communities."
Yet, Morgan stressed that economic growth must be paired with fairness. Her vision for a fair future includes accessible GP services, reduced NHS waiting times, safer streets, and vibrant town centres. It also means enabling young people to build careers in Wales without having to leave.
With a new generation of candidates and a clear mission, Morgan concluded that Welsh Labour is ready to build on this foundation and write the next chapter for a fairer, more prosperous Wales.
