WITH the possibility of both Scotland and Northern Ireland seeking independence from the UK in the wake of Brexit, politicians in mid Wales have spoken out about whether it is time for an independent Wales.

Political turbulence in the devolved nations following the UK’s vote to leave the EU has sparked calls from the leader of Plaid Cymru, Leanne Wood, for Wales to “put independence on the agenda”.

Mark Williams MP said: “My party and I have always campaigned for home rule for Wales as part of a federal UK.

“We continue to call for an enhanced National Assembly and have continually pushed this case through the Lib Dem-initiated Silk Commission and the subsequent Wales Bills that have gone through Parliament — though I regret that they have not gone far enough.

“The impact of Brexit and the issues that it throws up for the UK means that there will inevitably be calls for revisiting the issue of Welsh devolution in the near future, something that I hope will see a move towards real home rule for Wales.”

Elin Jones AM also seemed to avoid endorsing outright independence for Wales, but said there was a need to ensure that “Wales is not sidelined” following the triggering of article 50.

Ms Jones said: “The EU referendum has made the possibility of Scottish independence and the re-unification of Ireland more likely and therefore the people of Wales have to now consider these possibilities and the likely repercussions on Wales.

“We need to ensure that Wales is not sidelined in any of these major constitutional debates.”

Glyn Davies MP said that, while he is “very proud to be Welsh”, he also believes Wales would lose out if it was to leave the UK.

“Wales is a distinctive nation, with its own language and culture,” said Mr Davies.

“I am very proud to be Welsh, but I also think Wales and Welsh people benefit from being an integral part of the United Kingdom.

“I am very disappointed that the Scottish First Minister has decided that she wants yet another divisive referendum on Scottish Independence.

“I very much hope and believe our fellow Celts north of Hadrian’s Wall will vote not to undermine the UK.

“Following the divisive EU Referendum, which has so divided the British people, we need to focus on what unites us, not what divides us.”

Russell George AM added: “I don’t think people in Mid Wales share the SNP’s or Plaid Cymru’s vision for independence and I see no appetite for an independence referendum here in Wales.

“As the Prime Minister has said, politics is not a game and any independence referendum would be divisive and cause huge economic uncertainty at the worst possible time.”