Devolution Wales v Scotland/NI

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Originally Posted by JamesWales

I dont subscribe to the idea that Wales should stay part of the UK because of the size of the British economy. I dont think that does any harm, but size of a country, or its economy doesnt necessarily mean it will be wealthy. In fact, there is almost no relationship to size at all, and countries like Estonia, Lithuania etc obviously flourished despite ceasing to be part of a much larger nation state. There's some complications now with the UK not being in the EU, as our economy is almost totally intertwined with Englands, but generally speaking I do not think Wales couldn't succeed because we are small

The UK however does have a much higher GDP per capita an that means that Wales is supported disproportionate to the amount we put in, and I think it's a huge risk to change that. Our GDP per capita is about a third of the UK average. Independence would bring about a huge funding gap in how services are provided. In time it would be overcome, but it's an enormous risk and what policies would we have to make us so appealing?

All that said, I recognise that being pretty much the poorest part of the UK is also an argument that could be used as a reason to leave, ie - 'what good has it done us?' etc.

I'm generally (and identity wise) against Independence, but I'm open minded on it, I just think the economic arguments are weak and need a lot of work. Certainly, it isn't a no brainer in any direction and no one should suggest it is.

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Most independent economists agree that leaving the EU has had and will continue to have and negative impact on Britain. How is not a no brainer to leave them behind and take advantage of that? It would get their foot off our necks for start. It would end what is essentially minority rule in Wales. And our culture would remain intact. We would be supported.

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Originally Posted by NYCBlue

Most independent economists agree that leaving the EU has had and will continue to have and negative impact on Britain. How is not a no brainer to leave them behind and take advantage of that? It would get their foot off our necks for start. It would end what is essentially minority rule in Wales. And our culture would remain intact. We would be supported.

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Ironically, if Wales ever gain independence, and I think we will at some stage, then the kind of deal we would be seeking with England, NI and Scotland would be similar to the deal the UK had with the EU, certainly for freedom of movement, zero tariffs and shared standards.

Whether Wales would want to rejoin the EU as an independent nation, well that would be well within our rights and something that the people of Wales would decide at that time.

Ultimately I don't think we are quite there with being able to convince enough people (in Wales) that Wales can thrive better being an independent nation... But I think it's a growing conversation young people are having.

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Originally Posted by az city

80 years? Come off it. Fantasy again. Ireland joined the EU in 1974 I believe. There's a pretty decent case to be made that 1974 would be the date on which Ireland's economy started to speed up to eventually zoom past jolly old England's.

It seems a perfect role model for Wales. Facing an economic catastrophe conjoined with Brexit England versus independence within the EU is no dilemma. Choosing the latter is a no brainer.

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There are a lot of countries throughout Europe who gave gained independence in the last 50 years who have developed significantly, in terms of economics, development and social welfare reforms. Them joining the EU has helped them tremendously. I do have some issues with the EU, but for Wales, it was significantly beneficial being part of the EU than what we have now .... Out of the EU and a Westminster government who despise Wales.

Our Siân is behind the wheel! The petition has picked up a bit of momentum the last week or so

https://nation.cymru/news/weather-re...estate-profit/