The Leader of the Welsh Conservatives has described the outgoing First Minister as a ‘real giant of Welsh politics’ on his last day as Leader of the Welsh Government.
During his response to the First Ministers resignation statement, Paul Davies AM thanked Carwyn Jones AM for his ‘immense contribution’ to public life in Wales, saying that his successor would have ‘big shoes to fill’.
Mr Jones's nine years as First Minister of Wales will come to a close today. The Assembly Member for Bridgend will submit his resignation to the Queen following his final First Ministers Questions and subsequent resignation statement.
During the last FMQ’s, Mr Davies talked about income tax in Wales and the long term economic benefits that a low income tax rate can bring.
So far the rates in Wales – which were devolved in April 2018 - have stayed fixed alongside UK Government thresholds following a 2016 Welsh Labour manifesto pledge to not increase them before the 2021 Assembly election. However, the new Welsh Labour Leader – Mark Drakeford AM – indicated in October that he would be prepared to ditch the manifesto pledge if he felt “compelled to do so.”
Speaking outside the Chamber, the Leader of the Welsh Conservatives said:
“The First Minister has led his party and our country for nine years – it’s a remarkable feat whatever your political stripes.
“Carwyn’s time as First Minister will be remembered for different reasons by different people and many versions of his legacy will be written up in the years to come.
“Whilst we have clashed on several occasions over the years, I am confident that there is more that unites us than divides us. We all want a healthier and more prosperous Wales, and we all fight for the best interests of the people we represent.
“Carwyn Jones’ successor has big shoes to fill – he was a real giant of Welsh politics. I wish him and his family well in the future.”
