Funding demand for Wales over EU split

WALES should be given “every penny” of lost EU funding after Brexit and the country should be allowed to have its own independence referendum if Scotland pulls out of the UK, Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood has said.

Her demand comes as Theresa May is due to visit Wales today to make clear that the government is committed to helping the country’s ailing steel industry.

The Prime Minister will tell the Welsh people she will “always be on your side” and remains committed to keeping the United Kingdom together.

She will meet First Minister Carwyn Jones at the Welsh Assembly in Cardiff and reaffirm that she will “fully engage” with the Welsh Government on Brexit negotiations.

Speaking ahead of the visit, Ms Wood said: “Plaid Cymru wants every penny of EU funding replaced in the value, and to secure the best possible trade deal for the Welsh economy.

“We are developing a National Mitigation Plan as a party, which will set out exactly what is needed for Wales to be protected from any adverse effects from Brexit.

“In the short-term, we also need Wales to get the same powers as the Scottish Parliament currently has.

“In the event of Scotland becoming an independent country within the EU, we in Wales should also be allowed to decide our own future and explore our own constitutional options as well.”

In a statement, the Prime Minister said: “I want to say to the people of Wales that the government I lead will always be on your side – and that means I will stand up for you and your family against injustice and inequality.”