Tributes have been paid to the wife of the First Minister, Clare Drakeford, who has died suddenly. The Welsh Government confirmed the news earlier today.
In a statement, a Welsh Government spokesman said: "It is with deep sadness that we confirm the sudden passing of Clare Drakeford, wife of the First Minister. The thoughts of everyone in the Welsh Government are with the family at this time and we ask that their privacy is respected.”
From across the political spectrum, tributes have been paid to Mrs Drakeford. She and Mark Drakeford had been married for 46 years and have three children.
Writing on Twitter, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: "Incredibly sad to hear about the sudden death of Clare Drakeford. I know how committed Mark and Clare were to each other. I can’t imagine the pain Mark and his family will now be feeling. My heartfelt condolences go out to them."
Labour leader Keir Starmer said: "I’m deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Clare Drakeford. On behalf of the whole Labour Party, I send our deepest condolences to Mark and all the family. They are all in our thoughts and prayers."
The leader of Plaid Cymru Adam Price said: "My heart is absolutely breaking for @PrifWeinidog after hearing of the sudden passing of his wife, Clare Drakeford. I know how close you were and there are no words to describe the pain you must be feeling. My thoughts are with you and your family. We’re all here for you Mark."
The leader of the Welsh Conservatives Andrew RT Davies said: "My thoughts and prayers are with Mark Drakeford and his family at this exceptionally difficult time. On the occasions I met Clare, she was always a lovely lady and was very warm and kind. I’m shocked and deeply saddened to hear of her passing."
Jo Stevens, MP for Cardiff Central, wrote: "So shocked and so very sad at the news of Clare Drakeford’s death. The thoughts and sympathy of all us in @CardiffCentLAB and across the Welsh Parliamentary Labour Party are with Mark and his family."
First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon wrote: "My thoughts are with Mark and his family at this terribly sad time. On the occasions I met Clare it was obvious how strong the bond between her and Mark was, and I can only imagine the depth of grief he is feeling. Sending him love and strength."
Presiding officer of the Senedd Elin Jones wrote: "As a Senedd we are deeply saddened to learn of Clare Drakeford’s passing. We are holding Mark and his family close to our hearts and send them our deepest condolences, love and support."
David TC Davies MP, Secretary of State for Wales, wrote: "Absolutely devastating news to learn of Clare Drakeford’s passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to @PrifWeinidog @MarkDrakeford and his family during this incredibly difficult time."
Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats Jane Dodds said: "My heartfelt sympathies go out to the First Minister at this very difficult time. On behalf of everyone in the Welsh Liberal Democrats, I extend our deepest condolences to Mark, his family and friends."
Kevin Brennan, MP for Cardiff West, wrote: "This is dreadfully sad news - Clare was a lovely person - my deepest sympathy to Mark and his family ."
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