Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish leaders unite in push to leave UK

The first ministers of Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have joined forces in a joint statement, asserting their right to decide whether to remain members of the United Kingdom. The leaders of Sinn Féin, the Scottish National Party (SNP), and Plaid Cymru signed a memorandum of understanding, declaring that no Westminster government should have the authority to obstruct democracy or disregard the principle of self-determination.

This came in the wake of US President Donald Trump's visit to Dublin, where he expressed support for a united Ireland. The agreement, signed by Michelle O'Neill, first minister of Northern Ireland, John Swinney from the SNP, and Rhun ap Iorwerth from Plaid Cymru, states that the future of their nations should be within the European Union.

The meeting, held in the Welsh capital, is the first time all three nations have had their first ministers commit to independence from the United Kingdom. While the parties share a common goal, their approaches to achieving it differ: the SNP seeks a second independence referendum, Sinn Féin wants reunification with Northern Ireland, and Plaid Cymru aims for Welsh independence in the long term.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has been relatively silent on devolution issues since taking office in July, with his office stating that he believes "strongly in the Union," referring to the constitutional union between Northern Ireland and the UK.