Overview

• Labour, citing UK Government analysis, argues independence would create about a £20bn annual shortfall for Wales and require more than £11,000 per working‑age adult to maintain current public services.
• In remarks prepared for the Liverpool conference, Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens warned Plaid’s plan would mean either steep tax rises or deep cuts to public services.
• Plaid accused Jo Stevens of “talking Wales down” and argued that UK Labour policies such as the two‑child benefit cap, a national insurance hike and winter fuel payment changes are driving current hardship.
• Plaid says it would not hold an independence referendum in a first term, though leader Rhun ap Iorwerth has said a vote could happen within “our lifetime.”
• Stevens was expected to pledge £200m to revitalise Welsh high streets as part of Labour’s message of renewal for communities across Wales.