Shift in Welsh Leadership Race: Jeremy Miles Bows Out, Endorses Eluned Morgan as Next First Minister

Leading candidate to succeed Vaughan Gething as the First Minister of Wales withdraws from the race – endorses another candidate

Jeremy Miles, who was previously defeated by Mr. Gething in March, was anticipated to run again but has chosen to support Welsh Health Secretary Eluned Morgan instead.

Journalist from Wales, @TomosGruffydd

Sunday, July 21, 2024, 1:

Jeremy Miles, who previously competed against Vaughan Gething for leadership, has announced he will not enter the contest to replace Wales's retiring first minister.

In March, Mr. Miles was defeated by Mr. Gething and it was broadly anticipated that he would run once more.

He has, however, expressed his support for Welsh Health Secretary Eluned Morgan.

Mr. Miles served as the economy secretary in Mr. Gething's cabinet but resigned last Tuesday along with three other ministers, urging Mr. Gething to step down.

That afternoon, Mr. Gething declared his intention to resign from his role as first minister.

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The executive committee of the Labour Party in Wales convened on Saturday to deliberate on the forthcoming leadership contest.

Members of the Senedd must submit their nominations for candidates by noon on Wednesday.

The announcement of the winner is scheduled for Saturday, September 14, followed by a Senedd vote on Wednesday, September 18 to officially confirm the new First Minister.

Baroness Morgan of Ely has served as the representative for Mid and West Wales in the Senedd, starting her term in 2016. She is also a member of the House of

She has been the health secretary since 2021 and is also in charge of affairs related to the Welsh language.

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In an announcement made on X, Mr. Miles expressed his intention to propose the health secretary as the next leader of Welsh Labour.

He stated that under Baroness Morgan's leadership, "we could all progress."

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Mr. Miles commented, "Eluned is not only a friend to Wales but also a respected associate. She has defended Welsh interests in the Senedd, as well as in Europe and Westminster."

"The principles she advocates for — equity, widespread wealth, environmental sustainability, and robust decentralization — are ones that I deeply resonate with.

"Under Eluned's leadership, Welsh Labour aims to engage and advocate for every region of our country."

Mr. Miles expressed his deep appreciation for the support and encouragement he received from individuals who motivated him to run in the election.

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