Walkout in Senedd as Reform politician accused of racism sparks second row

Members of Plaid Cymru, Labour, and the Greens staged a walkout in the Welsh Senedd on Wednesday after Reform UK MS Joe Martin delivered a speech widely criticized for racist and derogatory remarks. Martin mocked Welsh students for allegedly being unable to read, claiming they failed to respond to an email due to illiteracy, and added that nurses recruited from India were preferable to Welsh citizens who would otherwise rely on universal credit. The walkout marked the second consecutive day of controversy for Martin, who had previously faced accusations of racism from Plaid Cymru after suggesting attacks from Sudanese asylum seekers were 'inevitable.' Presiding Officer Huw Irranca-Davies rebuked Martin for the second time, stating his remarks were 'not in line with my expectations,' though he initially declined to directly reprimand Martin on Tuesday despite complaints that his speech violated Senedd rules. Reform UK defended Martin’s comments, with chief whip Jason O’Connell calling the walkout 'shameful' and urging opposition parties to 'get used to it.' The debate centered on Welsh government spending overseas, with Reform pushing for an end to all international aid. Plaid Cymru’s Zaynub Akbar and Welsh Green leader Anthony Slaughter led the walkout, with Plaid sources confirming most of the party’s MSs left in protest. Minister for the Constitution Dafydd Trystan Davies criticized the debate’s tone, comparing it to 'the level of a public house.' Plaid Cymru condemned Reform UK’s behavior, stating the party was 'making a mockery of our democracy.' Irranca-Davies had earlier urged members to avoid inflammatory language but did not immediately reprimand Martin on Tuesday, leading to frustration among Plaid MSs. The incident underscored growing tensions in the Senedd, where Reform UK’s rise has sparked clashes over immigration, welfare, and international spending. While Irranca-Davies issued a final warning to Martin, no formal breach was recorded, though his comments were seen as a caution to all members. Reform UK’s push to end overseas aid was rejected by Plaid and Labour, highlighting deep divisions in the chamber.