Plaid Cymru - The Party of Wales

Leader

Ieuan Wyn Jones

Founded

August 5, 1925

Ideology

Welsh Independence, Social Democracy

Background

Founded in 1925, under the name Plaid Genedlaethol Cymru ('National Party of Wales'), the party soon changed its title to Plaid Cymru (Party of Wales). It remained as such until the late 1990s, when it became formally known as 'Plaid Cymru - The Party of Wales', due to electoral requirements that all parties have an English name.

It is a left-of-centre political party, which campaigns for Welsh independence and the promotion of Welsh culture. Although traditionally most popular in the Welsh-speaking areas of Wales, the party made some impressive breakthroughs in the 1999 elections, gaining seats in places such as Caerphilly, where little or no Welsh is spoken.

Currently, they hold 3 seats in the House of Commons, and 12 in the Welsh Assembly, where they act as the official opposition party.

Contact Details

www.plaidcymru.org