Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland Leaders Sign Cardiff Pact: 'Westminster's Time Is Coming to an End'

'Scotland, Wales and (Northern) Ireland have distinct histories, identities and political traditions,' the memorandum of understanding of the three nations states as they push for greater self-determination and constitutional change. 'Each of our nations has the right to determine its own future, through democratic means and in accordance with the wishes of its people.'

While the UK successfully exited the European Union, the three nations commit to working with European countries and international partners. 'Brexit has damaged our economies, and limited opportunities for our people,' the memorandum also read.

Independence Momentum Builds Across Nations

Political leaders across all three nations may have implied devolution in the past. However, it was not until the election of Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth as First Minister of Wales in May 2026 that all three devolved administrations were led by parties committed to independence.

Scottish leadership has long promoted independence through the Scottish National Party (SNP), which has held the First Minister post since 2007. In 2014, the nation held a historic vote on whether it should become an independent country. However, through a decisive majority vote, the 'no' vote won with 55.3% compared to the 44.7% voting 'yes.'

A major shift in Northern Ireland politics came in 2022, when, for the first time, Sinn Féin won the most seats during the elections, narrowly beating the Democratic Unionist Party. But a major symbolic shift came in 2024 when Michelle O'Neill was officially sworn in as First Minister of Northern Ireland, becoming the first nationalist politician to hold the post.

First Ministers Unite on Independence Agenda

'For the first time ever, people across these islands have first ministers in Scotland, in Wales and in North of Ireland who are all committed to independence from the United Kingdom,' the memorandum also stated.

US President Donald Trump said he would 'love' to see Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland unified and that 'it may as well happen now.' The memorandum was signed by the three First Ministers in their capacity as party leaders, alongside Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald: SNP leader John Swinney, Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth, Sinn Féin vice-president Michelle O'Neill and Sinn Féin president Mary Lou McDonald.

There is no timeline in the memorandum as to when the leaders wish to gain independence. The agreement calls on the British Government to prepare, plan and facilitate constitutional change in each jurisdiction.

Leaders Call for Democratic Self-Determination

'A privilege to welcome the leaders of the SNP and Sinn Féin to Wales at what is an important moment in our politics,' ap Iorwerth said as he hosted the meeting among party leaders in Cardiff on Monday, 14 September 2026. 'Our parties have much to gain from working together, as partners and as equals, where we share common interests and where cooperation can improve the lives of the people we represent.'

Swinney, for his part, said: 'A historic day in Cardiff today. Scotland, Wales and Ireland coming together to assert that the futures of our nations must be shaped by our people. If this is still a voluntary union, Westminster has no democratic right to deny our right to choose.'

Finally, O'Neill said: 'We are living through a time of enormous change in Ireland and across our nations, with three nationalist First Ministers in office for the first time in history. Change will not be stopped.'