Plaid Cymru: Surprise opposition to power transfer

Plaid Cymru will oppose moves to devolve responsibility over tuition fees to the Welsh assembly, it has been revealed.

In a surprise move, the Welsh nationalists argued that the transfer of such power from Westminster is pointless without additional funding.

The party's leadership insists the decision has been designed to encourage Labour assembly members to approve unpopular policies on student fees.

"Everyone sees through this latest deceit," said the Plaid Cymru assembly leader, Ieuan Wyn Jones.

"Top up fees are unfair and immoral. Giving the power to decide about them to the assembly is just downright cynical if the extra cash isn't there.

"There can only be a real choice if extra money is upfront. New Labour is trying to use the assembly to push through its own unpopular policies.

"Peter Hain has indicated as much in his comments on the matter. Frankly, no more cash means no real choice. If the cash isn't given then let the powers stay in Westminster."