LOCAL politicians Liz Saville Roberts and Ben Lake have accused the Welsh Labour government for “failing to respect” Wales’ history.

A controversial statue in Flintshire, depicting an iron ring, has caused outrage amongst many Welsh residents who believe the installation celebrates England’s subjugation of their country and history.

As a result,the four Plaid Cymru MPs - Liz Saville Roberts, of Dwyfor Meirionnydd, Ben Lake, Ceredigion, Hywel Williams, Arfon and Jonathan Edwards, Carmarthen East and Dinefwr - have sent a strongly worded letter to Ken Skates, cabinet secretary for economy and infrastructure, asked for the proposal to be abolished.

The letter reads: “We write with objection to the Welsh Government’s proposals to create an iron ring sculpture at Flint Castle.

“Our historical buildings play a key role in remembering our past, and this is something which Plaid Cymru celebrates. On this occasion, however, we believe that plans for this ‘iron ring’ - the name most commonly given to Edward I’s castles when he conquered Wales - to be ill-judged, ignorant and insensitive.

“As well you know, the reign of Edward I was dominated by humiliation and suffering for our forefathers in a deliberate attempt to eradicate Welsh customs, traditions and our own laws.

“Nations with a robust grasp of their history erect monuments to their people’s liberty, not conquest.

“It is the duty of any government to ensure that the past is not only recognised but respected. We believe that, in this instance, the Welsh Government is failing on both fronts.”

Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure said: “We have listened and recognise the strength of feeling around the proposed art installation at Flint Castle and feel it is only right that we now take a pause and review the plans for the sculpture. Working closely with local partners we will continue to work on proposals for developments at Flint, including reviewing new visitor facilities.”