Drakeford confirmed as new Welsh first minister

Mark Drakeford has succeeded Carwyn Jones and has been confirmed as the new First Minister after a vote in the Welsh Assembly.

The former finance minister received 30 votes from assembly members and began his new role by stating that the Welsh Assembly should be a ‘beacon of hope’ moving forward and that ministers should strive for ‘a kinder sort of politics’ in our current ‘fractured world’.

Drakeford added: "It is an enormous privilege to lead a political party here in Wales, and even more so be nominated and elected as first minister in the National Assembly. I am absolutely conscious both of the opportunity and the responsibility which comes with this position."

Before he can be officially sworn into office, the Queen is required to endorse his appointment and then Drakeford will be sworn in by a senior judge.