SNP, Plaid Cymru and Sinn Féin unite behind demand for independence votes

Three political parties representing Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have issued a joint statement asserting the right of their people to determine their own futures, in a move that signals closer cooperation between the pro-independence camps across the United Kingdom.

The statement brings together the Scottish National Party, Plaid Cymru and Sinn Féin. While each party pursues a different path towards reshaping its relationship with Britain, they have pledged to work together on shared goals. The agreement does not by itself break up the United Kingdom, nor does it announce any referendum.

The United Kingdom comprises England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Independence movements are active in Scotland and Wales, while Sinn Féin campaigns for a united Ireland, which would mean Northern Ireland joining the Republic of Ireland.

The parties argue that their nations have distinct histories, identities and political traditions, and that their people deserve better opportunities and a stronger say over their futures.

"We share a belief that the nations and communities we represent deserve greater ambition, greater economic opportunity and a stronger voice in determining their own futures. The political landscape across these islands is changing," the joint statement said.

According to the statement, all three nations now have first ministers committed to leaving the UK — a development the parties present as evidence that Westminster's authority is nearing its end.

Economic policy forms a central plank of the shared platform. The parties say they want to exchange ideas and experience on building productive economies that create good jobs, reduce inequality and spread wealth and opportunity more fairly. They criticised the British government's economic approach, saying their communities need something better.

"We reject Whitehall's broken economic model and will instead build economies which deliver social justice and reduce inequality across our nations," the statement added.

Energy is another area earmarked for cooperation. The parties favour developing renewable resources to bring down electricity costs for households and businesses, arguing that local energy wealth should benefit local people directly.

Europe completes the trio of shared priorities. The parties contend that Brexit damaged their economies and narrowed opportunities, and they envisage their nations' futures inside the European Union with stronger ties to the bloc. Such links, they argue, could support trade, investment, culture and broader cooperation.

"Europe is our common home, and we believe the future of our nations belongs in the European Union," the statement said.

The joint campaign was discussed at a gathering in Cardiff, where John Swinney, Rhun ap Iorwerth and Michelle O'Neill were identified as the three first ministers. The event also highlighted pressure over possible public votes on the UK's future, with Andy Burnham rejecting the idea of another Scottish referendum before the next general election.

The developments raise an open question about what would remain of the United Kingdom should any of its constituent nations depart. For now, the outcome remains uncertain.