I resigned from the Government with a heavy heart

MS for Wrexham

Last week was one of the most challenging and upsetting I have experienced in my entire career, having been a Member of the Labour Party for over 40 years, a Member of the Senedd for 17 years and a Member of the Welsh Government for 14 years.

Readers will be aware I resigned from the Government with a heavy heart, along with 3 other colleagues, which led to Vaughan Gething stepping down as Welsh Labour Leader and First Minister of Wales.

From the very beginning, I had expressed my concerns about the circumstances surrounding certain donations the First Minister received during his leadership campaign. The outcome of the Vote of No Confidence and the sacking of a ministerial colleague for leaking when no formal leak inquiry had taken place, also caused me concern and were impacting on the Government’s ability to continue to deliver for the people of Wales.

It has been an immense privilege to have served in the Welsh Government in a number or ministerial roles over the past 14 years, however, after much consideration and discussion, I felt I was left with no option other than to tender my resignation. The decision was not easy or pleasant and I am very grateful for the support I have received from many constituents, and people across Wales.

This has undoubtedly been an upsetting period for everyone involved but I hope this sorry chapter has drawn to a close and we can move forward, positively, proactively and united behind a new First Minister.

Along with the support of a new Labour Government in Westminster, there is a golden opportunity for the Welsh Government to deliver further tangible benefits for people in Wrexham and across the country.

A timetable for the leadership campaign is expected to be announced in the coming days, resulting in a new First Minister being installed by the autumn.

While I am no longer a member of the Welsh Government, I remain the Member of the Senedd for Wrexham, so, if you’re a constituent and there is an issue I could help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me via email: lesley.griffiths@senedd.wales or call 01978 355743.