Who is Mark Drakeford? Career background as First Minister of Wales announces resignation

Mark Drakeford has said he is standing down as First Minister of Wales. In a statement shared on social media on Wednesday morning, Mr Drakeford said: “When I stood for election as Leader of Welsh Labour, I said I would stand down during the current Senedd term.

“That time has now come. It has been a great privilege to serve as leader of this party. Together, we have achieved a huge amount over the last five years in some of the toughest times we have known.”

He said he would stand down in March 2024, giving time for a successor to be chosen. The current Senedd term ends in 2026 and Mr Drakeford had earlier said he would not seek re-election as an MS.

Who is Mark Drakeford?

Mark Drakeford, 69, grew up in west Wales before moving to Cardiff. He has worked as a probation officer, a youth justice worker, a Barnardos project leader, and became a professor of social policy and applied social sciences.

He served as a Labour councillor specialising in education issues, and later worked as the Welsh government’s health and social policy adviser. He has had roles including Minister for Health and Social Services and Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Local Government. He was appointed First Minister on December 12, 2018.

Mr Drakeford married Clare Buckle in 1977, and they had three children together. Ms Buckle died in January, at the age of 71.

Mark Drakeford won tributes for his response to the Covid pandemic (PA Wire)

Why is he stepping down?

In his statement, he said he would “stand down during the current Senedd term”. Mr Drakeford was elected five years ago, so his term has come to an end.

His resignation will trigger an election to replace him. The former first minister said he hopes his successor will be in place before Easter.

How have politicians reacted?

On X, formerly known as Twitter, Labour MP Jo Stevens said: “Mark Drakeford has epitomised public service and public duty throughout his time as First Minister of Wales. His remarkable stewardship of Wales through the horror of the pandemic being the most obvious example.”

Jeremy Miles, Minister for Education and Welsh Language, said: “Mark Drakeford is an extraordinary man who has led Wales through extraordinary times.

“He has been a beacon for compassion in our politics, and an example of public service to our nation.”

Labour MP Kevin Brennan said: “Mark has been an exemplary public servant and will leave a lasting legacy as a result of his absolute dedication to social justice and the welfare of people of Wales.”

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth said: “As he announces his departure I recognise and pay tribute to the First Minister’s dedication to public life and in particular the tone of his leadership through the pandemic.”