Hannah Blythyn disputes lack of evidence for dismissal following alleged media leak

A former Welsh government minister, Hannah Blythyn, has formally expressed concerns regarding her dismissal by First Minister Vaughan Gething, who cited her alleged leaking of messages to the media during the Covid-19 pandemic as grounds for removal. Blythyn, who served as minister for social partnership, stated she was presented with no evidence of the accusations before her sacking, leading her to publicly defend her integrity.

The dismissal in May followed the publication of leaked messages from a Covid-related ministerial group chat, and Blythyn maintains her innocence. In an emotional statement to the Senedd, she claimed the process had severely impacted her mental health and questioned the fairness of her removal.

The controversy has intensified scrutiny on First Minister Gething, who has faced criticism from both opposition parties and within his own ranks. His decision to remove Blythyn contributed to the breakdown of a co-operation agreement with Plaid Cymru, culminating in a non-binding vote of no confidence against him in the Senedd.

Blythyn voiced her dissatisfaction with the manner of her dismissal, arguing: “I was not shown any alleged evidence before being sacked, nor was I informed of any investigation or potential breach of the ministerial code.” She emphasised the necessity for a transparent process to safeguard the integrity of the Civil Service and the First Minister’s office, adding that the ordeal had caused her significant personal distress.

While Gething’s office declined to comment publicly, Andrew RT Davies of the Welsh Conservatives stated that Blythyn’s remarks raised serious questions about the First Minister’s handling of the situation. Rhun ap Iorwerth, Plaid Cymru leader, also pressed for a clear response and the presentation of evidence, citing concerns over governance practices.

The controversy traces back to a message from Gething in a 2020 ministerial group chat, allegedly concerning internal Labour discussions. Gething has maintained that he did not delete relevant messages but instead acted in accordance with security measures led by the Welsh Parliament’s IT team. He denies any link between the leaked message and pandemic-related decision-making.

Blythyn’s insistence on her innocence and the lack of evidence continues to provoke debate and calls for transparency in the Welsh government’s handling of internal matters.