Sir Fynwy Torfaen MS Laura Anne Jones has criticised Plaid Cymru after reports First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth raised Welsh independence during discussions with the Prime Minister just days after the Senedd election.

During the election campaign, Plaid Cymru repeatedly claimed independence was not a priority and “not on the ballot”.

However, Plaid’s manifesto included plans for a taxpayer funded commission on Welsh independence.

Ms Jones said: “Plaid Cymru spent the election campaign trying to reassure voters that independence was not their focus.

“Yet within days of taking office, Rhun ap Iorwerth is already raising it with the Prime Minister.

“As our Reform leader Dan Thomas said, the new Plaid Government should be concentrating on fixing the NHS, helping with the cost of living and bringing jobs to Wales, not more constitutional navel gazing which I’m sure will sadly define this Senedd term.

“It’s the wrong priorities for my constituents in Monmouthshire and Torfaen and the wrong priorities for Wales.”