SNP, Plaid Cymru Plan Progressive Alliance to Challenge Westminster Politics

Scottish and Welsh nationalist parties, the SNP and Plaid Cymru, are forming a "progressive alliance" to challenge the UK Labour government and offer an alternative to right-wing politics. SNP First Minister John Swinney and Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth highlighted the historic ties between Scotland and Wales and emphasized their shared commitment to tackle issues like child poverty and economic inequality. Both leaders criticized the current Westminster status quo, describing it as failing their nations and moving further right to compete with Nigel Farage. The alliance aims to send a strong message against the UK Labour government's policies and promote a vision of independence and social support. Plaid Cymru plans to pilot the Scottish Child Payment in Wales if it forms the next government, inspired by Scotland's success in reducing child poverty. The cooperation between the two parties is seen as a way to amplify their voices in Westminster and push for greater autonomy and fairer funding for both nations.