The Western Mail speculates that Rhodri Morgan’s departure as First Minister could see the Welsh Liberal Democrats brought into the One Wales government either shortly after the General Election or after the next Assembly Elections, to create a broad-based left-of- centre administration with widespread public support.
The speculation is reinforced by the widespread perception that Plaid Cymru’s Leader, Ieuan Wyn Jones is doing such a poor job as Economy and Transport Minister. A Welsh Labour strategist is quoted as saying: “There would be another advantage in bringing the Liberal Democrats in. Three of the four Plaid ministers are doing a good job: Elin Jones is doing very well with Rural Affairs, it is generally agreed, Alun Ffred Jones is doing OK as Heritage Minister, and Jocelyn Davies is fine as Deputy Housing Minister.
“The one Plaid minister who is not doing well is Ieuan Wyn Jones, the party leader, at Economy and Transport. Many people take the view that he is being run by the civil servants. [Welsh Liberal Democrat leader] Kirsty Williams could come into the Cabinet as Economy Minister, with Ieuan becoming Minister for Social Justice. So far as the Liberal Democrats are concerned, there could also be a place for Jenny Randerson or Peter Black.”
The Welsh Liberal Democrats have welcomed the suggestion. Their spokesperson said: “We are hearing similar things from within Labour, although no direct approach has been made to us.
“It’s the type of progressive solution that could be very good for Wales.
“Bringing us into government would make the coalition broader and would help dispel the negative view of some people that coalitions are more to do with stitch-ups and deals than they are about running the country.
“It’s very difficult for us to comment in detail when no formal proposal is on the table, but it is certainly something we would consider very carefully if it was put to us.”
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