The Welsh Liberal Democrats have declared they will refuse to support any future government that allocates taxpayer money toward Welsh independence efforts, setting a major red line ahead of the upcoming Senedd election.
Party leader Jane Dodds launched the manifesto in Cardiff, stating unequivocally, "We're very, very clear that we wouldn't support any government that spends money on independence." The party's platform prioritizes directing funds toward public services rather than what they term "pursuing separation from the UK."
This stance directly challenges Plaid Cymru, which has proposed a £500,000 national commission to explore independence groundwork, and the Greens, who also support independence. Both parties have ruled out attempting a referendum before 2030.
"Nationalism thrives in the absence of hope. It feeds on frustration, it grows where people feel ignored," Dodds said, appearing to critique both pro-independence and right-wing nationalist parties. "It does not clear a waiting list, it does not train a nurse."
With polls suggesting a potentially fragmented Senedd where coalition-building will be essential, the Lib Dems' position could significantly influence government formation. Dodds did not directly answer whether this stance might inadvertently help Reform UK's candidate, Dan Thomas, become first minister, but emphasized, "We are making it really clear right now... what our red lines are."
The manifesto outlines several key policies beyond the independence blockade:
- Expanding free childcare to children aged nine months to four years for 30 hours weekly
- Proposing a potential income tax increase to fund an additional £300 million for social care
- Banning water companies from dumping raw sewage
- Devolving more powers including rail, prisons, and policing to Wales
- Launching a ten-year emergency program to make homes warmer and cheaper to heat
Dodds acknowledged that implementing these policies would be expensive—particularly the childcare expansion, which she said would cost "more than" Plaid Cymru's estimated £400 million—but maintained, "We don't foresee cutting anything" to fund them. Financial experts have warned that Wales's budget constraints may necessitate tax increases or spending reductions for new commitments.
The Lib Dems, who currently hold just one Senedd seat, are aiming to win up to five in the election, positioning themselves as an alternative for unionist voters dissatisfied with Labour but unwilling to support pro-independence parties.