During a visit to the Royal Mint in Llantrisant, First Minister Carwyn Jones has seen work being completed on the first Welsh seal since the time of Owain Glyndwr.
The seal has been created following the ‘Yes’ result in this year’s referendum on further law-making powers for the National Assembly for Wales.
A Royal seal is required to be placed upon Acts of the Assembly after Her Majesty the Queen has given Royal Assent, effectively bringing a new law into effect.
As Wales does not have a Royal Coat of Arms, a whole new image has been created. The Royal Mint has created the seal, which has a modern design that represents both the monarch and Wales.
On a tour of the Royal Mint on Thursday, the First Minister saw the completed Welsh seal. The seal is now subject to Her Majesty’s Approval, which will be sought at a meeting of the Privy Council later this month. The First Minister has the formal role of ‘Keeper of the Seal’.
The First Minister said: “This new seal is hugely important, both constitutionally and symbolically. In March this year the people of Wales gave a resounding yes to giving the National Assembly for Wales further law making powers. It was a truly a significant moment in the history of our country and this seal represents the new powers we hold on behalf of the nation.”
Adam Lawrence, CEO and Deputy Master of the Royal Mint, said: “We are delighted to have worked closely with the First Minister and the Welsh Government in creating the first Royal Welsh Seal. It has been an honour to use our 1,100 years of manufacturing knowledge and craftsmanship to create a physical symbol which represents a new era for the Welsh Government and embodies the Queen’s authority in Wales.”
During his visit the First Minister also saw work being carried out on the commemorative coin programme for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and Diamond Jubilee.
I dont believe this item, I`ve seen seals every year on holiday in Pembrokeshire, theres masses on Caldy for a start.