Favourite for Welsh first minister backs second Brexit vote

The frontrunner to become the next first minister of Wales has backed calls for a second EU referendum.

Mark Drakeford AM said he would support a second Brexit vote if a final deal was not agreed in the House of Commons.

The Welsh Government’s Finance Secretary confirmed his stance on Wednesday, after suggesting he would back a second referendum at the Trades Union Congress (TUC) conference in Manchester on Sunday.

Mr Drakeford said: “As far as Brexit is concerned, a second decision is coming.

“Any deal that Mrs May strikes will have to be put to the House of Commons. If it is not agreed there, then the people will have to decide.

“That could be through a general election and I agree with the TUC that a general election would be the best way forward.

“If that is not possible, then the deal should be put to people in a referendum.”

Mr Drakeford’s role as Cabinet Secretary for Finance means sees him handling the Welsh Government’s Brexit strategy.

His stance is in stark contrast with current First Minister Carwyn Jones, who has said he would not back calls for another vote.

Mr Jones will step down in December, with Mr Drakeford favourite to replace him as the leader of Welsh Labour.

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