Quote Originally Posted by JamesWales View Post
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.
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.