More than 12,000 people sign petition for Cornwall to be fifth nation
The Government is being urged to recognise Cornwall as the fifth nation of the UK
More than 12,000 people have so far signed a petition calling on the Government to recognise Cornwall as the fifth nation of the UK, granting the Duchy equal status with Wales and Scotland.
Cornwall Council’s Liberal Democrat and Independent coalition Cabinet have backed a call by the full council last week for Cornwall to receive fifth nation status. A petition started following last week’s move by the unitary authority has surpassed the 10,000-signature mark meaning the Government now has to respond to it.
If the petition receives 100,000 signatures by its deadline of September 11, the matter could go to the House of Commons for debate. Being recognised as the fifth nation could give Cornwall extra devolved powers, cultural preservation and official recognition of Cornwall’s distinct heritage, language and historic autonomy.
Speaking at Wednesday's Cabinet meeting at Lys Kernow / County Hall in Truro, the council’s Lib Dem leader Cllr Leigh Frost said: “We have the identity, the culture, and the ambition, but we also have serious challenges. We need fairer funding, better representation and the ability to shape our own future. These priorities are part of that bigger picture.”
A cross-party campaign is now under way to make the case in Parliament and engage with residents on what national recognition could mean in practice. Cllr Frost has written to the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister outlining the case for greater funding, representation and decision-making powers for Cornwall. He is currently awaiting a response.
The Cabinet formally adopted a new set of priorities aimed at tackling the biggest issues facing residents – from housing and health to the economy, environment and transport. The six priorities form the foundation of the new administration’s plan to deliver lasting improvements in people’s lives, “grounded in common sense and shaped by what communities say matters most”.
Cllr Frost said: “This is about setting out a clear, practical path to a better Cornwall. We’ve listened to residents and these priorities reflect what they want to see: decent homes, good jobs, support for families and a Cornwall that works for one and all.”
The six Cabinet priorities are:
- Strong, safe, vibrant communities with more decent and affordable homes
- A clean, green Cornwall with healthy rivers and seas
- A resilient economy creating good growth and jobs
- A caring place for families where children build a bright future
- Supporting people to live healthy and dignified lives
- Connected, safe, reliable roads and transport – that works for the people of Cornwall.
During the meeting he called on residents and visitors to show care and respect for Cornwall’s landscape during the busy summer season.
Cllr Frost said: “Cornwall is beautiful, but vulnerable. Please take your litter home, leave no trace, and follow safety advice – especially on our beaches. Let’s all do our bit to protect the place we love.”