Wales votes for law-making powers

  • 13 years ago

First minister Carwyn Jones has described the vote in the Welsh referendum for more legislative powers as a historic day.

A total of 517,132 people voted in favour compared to 297,380 against.

The result gives Wales powers to pass its own laws in its 20 devolved areas - like Scotland and Northern Ireland - without the approval of Westminster.

Mr Jones said: "This is a historic day for Wales. It is a clear and concise Yes vote across whole of Wales from the coast to the border."

Out of 22 constituencies in Wales, 21 voted in favour of gaining primary law-making powers - with the only No vote coming from Monmouthshire.

Welsh national party Plaid Cymru, which is in a coalition government with Labour, expressed delight at the win.

Deputy First Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones, AM for Ynys Mon, said: "Let's be proud that the nation has spoken with one voice."