We have no internal difficulties within Plaid Cymru on this. There's no mention of the triggering of article 50 in the White Paper. We are fully signed up to the White Paper, but we have our distinct position on the question of article 50, and that's why we've tabled this amendment today. But, as I’ve just said, we will be supporting the motion, even if our own amendment falls.

Now, the UK White Paper describes a trade situation that doesn't reflect Welsh circumstances. For example, the UK exports only 11 per cent of its goods to Germany, but for Wales, the figure is 24.8 per cent. Wales exports 13.7 per cent of its goods to France, but for the UK, the figure is only 6.5 per cent. I have no hesitation in endorsing the joint White Paper between Plaid Cymru and the Welsh Government as an accurate description of the Welsh national interest for the coming negotiations. I endorse both the policy priorities as well as the suggested approach. ‘Securing Wales' Future’ sets out a type of transition that would have the support of three of the main political parties in Wales. It ensures that Wales has a distinct position and a distinct platform for the JMC and other negotiations inside the UK. It sets out the closest and most positive relationship we could have with the European Union from outside, following Brexit. It identifies links with Ireland as being a strategic priority for our nation, and it outlines the critical areas of our society that need to be protected and defended from any disruption, and in particular in agriculture and rural Wales.

I also endorse the clarification and description in the White Paper on single market participation. The options for this are kept open, whether through membership of EFTA and participation in the EEA, or through a negotiated bespoke agreement, provided, of course, that such an agreement rules out tariffs and keeps our regulations compatible with those of the single market. Any deal that doesn't fulfil the conditions endorsed by the Welsh White Paper would be disadvantageous to Wales and would put our economy at risk.

Llywydd, Wales is in uncharted waters. The debate continues to evolve, and Plaid Cymru will contribute our ideas and our energy as the Brexit process unfolds. We'll continue to work with others where the national interest demands and where there’s common ground, just as Wales will work with the other devolved administrations. But Plaid Cymru remains wary of the UK Government. The UK Government is keen to say that it will listen to all of the devolved administrations. What remains to be seen is whether they actually intend to see this through or whether they just want to be seen to be inclusive and fair. Wales voted by a narrow margin to leave the European Union, but in Scotland and Northern Ireland the vote was different. Any approach to leaving the EU that rejects the aspirations of those devolved territories could lead to the end of the United Kingdom. Any approach that ignores that voice of Wales could discredit the UK Government and harm the Welsh relationship with the European Union. The joint White Paper sets out a way to avoid that damage and to preserve those important and beneficial European links whilst recognising the referendum result. It is in the Welsh national interest to endorse this White Paper today. Diolch yn fawr.