Eluned Morgan, Wales’ First Minister, recently stirred up a storm by not attending a state banquet for Donald Trump during his UK visit. Despite an invite from King Charles, she chose to skip the event, defending her decision on three counts. Firstly, she felt her place was with her Welsh party colleagues as they mourned the passing of Hefin David. She expressed that this moment was crucial for unity and support among them.
Secondly, there’s no denying that political differences played a part. Morgan has openly shared her contrasting views with Trump on various international issues, including the situation in Gaza, saying that more efforts are needed in that arena.
Now, a third reason has hit the spotlight. Pressed by Conservative MS Andrew RT Davies on why she skipped the chance for potential “trillions” in investment, especially when the Scottish FM attended, Morgan made it clear that state banquets aren’t venues for brokering business deals. Instead, she highlighted an upcoming investment summit scheduled for December where Wales would actively engage in securing business interests.
It remains uncertain when exactly the invitation was received or declined and how it aligned with the Senedd gathering, but one thing is clear: Morgan stands firm in her belief that her priorities were right where they needed to be. Her focus remains on Wales, its people, and the strategies that matter most for its future.