Vaughan Gething has had a tough go at it during his time as first minister, and it might just have hit a low point as a vote of no confidence went against him on Wednesday evening. With two Labour Senedd members absent through illness, it was always an uphill struggle, so we take a look at the debate which led to the decision.
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00:00I have put the points down before the Senate today. It will be for colleagues to determine
00:07how they wish to vote. But it is about judgment, transparency and honesty. Those are the three
00:15points before us.
00:17We on these benches are acting in what we firmly believe is the interests of the people
00:23of Wales. They, I have no doubt, have lost confidence in our First Minister, as have
00:30we.
00:31A government collectively led by the first black leader of any nation in Europe. And
00:37if that government falls, then so might this Parliament.
00:41We may be heading towards an early Senate election, all hope of reform lost. And for
00:47what? To bring down a leader to whom we never gave a chance. This motion may try and damage
00:54him today. But in supporting it, we damage ourselves.
00:58First Minister, I can honestly say that party politics aside, I was genuinely happy to see
01:04you take up this role and become the first black leader of any European country.
01:08That said, I cannot stress how disappointed I am to say the golden opportunity that you
01:13were given was completely wasted.
01:15Gwlad dros blyd. I will continue to put Wales first. First in thought, deed and ambition
01:26as I serve and lead my country.
01:29Open the vote.
01:32So with two Labour members out through illness, Vaughan Gething ended up losing the confidence
01:36vote 27 to 29. And the presiding officer urged respect and kindness in the wake of the decision.
01:44These motions are political, yes, but they are also intensely personal. And while a vote
01:49of this nature will have consequences, whatever they may be, I ask us all to treat each other
01:55with respect and kindness now. The people of Wales expect that of their Senedd.