The AM for Bridgend said: ‘There are people I haven’t been fair to in recent times, and that’s my family.’ (Picture: PA)

Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones will stand down from his duty in the autumn, it has been announced.

The shock revelation was made at a Welsh Labour party conference today in Llandudno, North Wales.

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Following the death of Communities Minister Carl Sargeant in November last year, Mr Jones, 51, said that he has been through the ‘darkest of times’.

The AM for Bridgend said: ‘There are people I haven’t been fair to in recent times, and that’s my family.


‘In any normal political career you expect to be put through the ringer and have your everything challenged. I don’t think anyone can know what these last few months have been like, other than Lisa and the kids.

The shock revelation was made at a Welsh Labour party conference today in Llandudno, North Wales. (Picture: PA)

‘They have helped me through the darkest of times, I have asked too much of them at times and it’s time for me think about what’s fair to them.



‘So conference this will be the last Labour conference I address as party leader.

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‘I intend, as I’ve always maintained, to be here to give every answer to every question.

‘I intend to stand down as your leader this autumn allowing for a new First Minister to take their place by the end of this year.

‘At that point it’ll make sense to have a fresh start for my family, my party and for my country.

‘I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together so far.’

Several Labour members were moved to tears by his announcement, and he was given a standing ovation after the speech.

Jones’ announcement means that Wales will see a new First Minister replace him in December.

This comes just a day after the lawyers of Mr Sargeant’s son, Jack, 24, wrote a strongly worded letter accusing Mr Jones of causing ‘considerable distress’.

Mr Sargeant was found dead four days after being dismissed from the cabinet.

An enquiry will be held into how Mr Jones handled the sacking, led by Paul Bowen QC – but is yet to begin.