First Minister Eluned Morgan scolds Labour conference attendees for lack of applause during her speech at Wales Online
First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan, addresses the Labour conference in Liverpool, where she chastised the crowd for not clapping during a specific part of her speech. Elected as the Welsh Labour leader in July, this marked her first address to the conference in her new capacity. She shared a poignant anecdote about her upbringing in Ely, formerly Europe’s largest council housing estate, highlighting the impact of inequality and injustice she witnessed firsthand. Recounting a story of a boy named Rob who faced challenges, she emphasised her commitment to ensuring everyone has the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
Switching to Welsh briefly in her speech, she spoke about the collaboration between the UK and Welsh governments as she assumed the role of First Minister. Met with silence due to a lack of translation, she jokingly reprimanded the audience, saying, “What I don’t get a clap for that bit, do I? That was the best bit of the speech,” which prompted applause. She outlined the achievements of her party, including free services for older individuals, hospital parking, medicine, and school lunches, as well as initiatives like a universal basic income for care leavers.
Looking ahead to the challenges leading up to the 2026 election, Morgan stressed the importance of maintaining Labour’s historical position as the largest party in Wales. She expressed determination to uphold this record, acknowledging the work already done and the work still to do, highlighting the risks of not retaining power. The First Minister’s speech resonated with her vision for a transformed society through collaborative efforts and progressive policies.
Stay updated with the latest politics news in Wales by signing up for our newsletter. Eluned Morgan’s address at the Labour conference underscored her commitment to addressing societal issues and driving positive change for the people of Wales. As she continues to lead the Welsh government, her focus on empowering individuals and building a fairer society remains at the forefront of her agenda.