The Unofficial Prime Minister of Wales: Huw T. Edwards (1892–1970)

Richard Weight has described Huw T. Edwards as ‘a man whose gradual loss of patience with Britain’s political elite mirrored that of millions of ordinary people.’1 It certainly seems that Edwards’ political life fits into a narrative of the increasing unravelling of the United Kingdom, as he moved from the position of Labour stalwart to Welsh nationalist when he joined Plaid Cymru in 1959. This narrative suggests a steady dismantling of support for the Union. Edwards agitated for greater autonomy for Wales from Labour and Conservative governments. Without doubt he was frustrated by the unwillingness of governments in London to give undivided consideration to the problems of Wales. However, it is simplistic to see Edwards’ stance steadily and irrevocably moving away from identification with the United Kingdom. This chapter discusses the complex and dynamic nature of Edwards’ Welshness and his negotiation of that identity within the realms of the United Kingdom. Edwards’ last political act was not his break with the Labour Party that had become increasingly centralist, but the rejoining of the party when it seemed to him that it was at last recognizing his aspirations for Wales within the Union.