Ken Skates, the Welsh Labour minister, drew an unexpected analogy during a Senedd session, likening his party to the Fellowship of the Ring from J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy. The comparison, made in a speech on Monday, highlighted the party's unity and collective mission in the face of political challenges.
"We are like the Fellowship," Skates said, "a diverse group brought together for a common purpose, each with our own strengths and weaknesses, but united in our quest." The remark drew smiles from fellow members and prompted a light-hearted exchange.
Skates' comments come ahead of the 2026 Welsh Parliament election, where Labour aims to retain its position as the leading party in Wales. The minister's Tolkien reference has since been widely shared on social media, adding a touch of fantasy to the political discourse.
Rhun ap Iorwerth, leader of Plaid Cymru, responded with a quip: "Let's hope they don't encounter any orcs on the campaign trail."