Cornish citizens to be officially recognised as a national minority by EU

Cornish citizens will officially join the ranks of Irish, Scottish, and Welsh as they will be recognised as a national minority by the EU.

17:07 24 April 2014

Lib Dem minister Danny Alexander is reportedly set to confirm that Cornish citizens will be officially recognised as a national minority joining the ranks of Irish, Scottish, and Welsh people. 

 

This will automatically mean that different government departments will be required to consider Cornwall’s views when making decisions. 

 

Mr Alexander is expected to say: "Cornish people have a proud history and a distinct identity. I'm delighted that we have been able to officially recognise this."

 

North Cornwall MP Dan Rogerson said: "Today's announcement means that the Cornish will finally be recognised as one of the constituent peoples of the UK alongside the Welsh, Scottish and Irish.

 

"It will also make sure that public institutions take account of Cornwall's unique identity.

 

"Despite the fact that the last Labour Government said that the Cornish couldn't be recognised in this way, Liberal Democrats in Coalition Government have made sure that the Cornish people, and our traditions, culture and heritage, now have the same status as everyone else.

 

"I'd like to thank Lib Dem Communities Minister Stephen Williams, his predecessor Don Foster, and the Chief Secretary Danny Alexander for listening to the case that we made.