The leaders of Plaid Cymru and the Welsh Conservatives have joined the Welsh Governent's Covid Core Group.

Adam Price and Paul Davies accepted the invitation from the First Minister.

Mr Price said Plaid Cymru would always seek to work “co-operatively and constructively with others”, particularly in a time of “unprecedented crisis”.

After receiving a request from the First Minister, I have accepted an invitation to become a member of the Welsh Government’s Covid Core Group. My membership of this Core Group will be an invaluable forum to raise valid questions and real concerns pertaining to the crisis as well as offering practical ideas and solutions for the ways ahead. Adam Price AM, Leader Plaid Cymru

The Plaid Cymru leader said it would not “hinder nor hamper” his nor his party’s ability to scrutinise but would “further facilitate” such scrutiny.

Paul Davies was more cautious in his response to the First Minister.

I am of course happy to take part in these discussions but, as I'm sure you'll understand, should they interfere with the scrutiny of the Government's work then I'll have to reconsider my role in attending them. Paul Davies AM, Conservative Group Leader

Mark Drakeford has set out how the new arrangements will work in a statement to AMs.

The Cabinet Covid Group meets each Wednesday morning. It receives reports of the latest developments from the Chief Medical Officer, the Chief Executive of NHS Wales, the Emergency Coordinating Centre and the Welsh Local Government Association. In recognition of the uniquely serious position we face, I have invited the leaders of the Welsh Conservatives and Plaid Cymru to join that Group. Mark Drakeford AM, First Minister

Mr Drakeford was addressing a special meeting of the Senedd held by video conference. Our political editor Adrian Masters says it was a very significant moment.

Both Plaid Cymru and the Conservatives have been critical of aspects of the Welsh Government's coronavirus response,

Plaid Cymru have scrutinised the collapse of a deal to secure more tests for NHS workers suspected of having the disease.

The Conservatives have highlighted when the Welsh Government hasn't immediately matched UK Government initiatives, and that plans for a field hospital in Llandudno were not announced at the same time as emergency facilities in Cardiff and Llanelli.