The First Minister officially responded to the High Court judgement, made last week, in relation to the judicial review brought by Bernadette Sargeant regarding the independent QC-led investigation.

In a written statement, Mark Drakeford AM has informed Assembly Members that in light of the judgement, the issues involving the independent QC-led inquiry should be ‘reconsidered’ independently from Welsh Government.

Treasury Solicitor and Head of the UK Government Legal Department, Jonathan Jones QC, will undertake this work.

The First Minister has also confirmed to AMs that the leak inquiry report will be published following the conclusion of the coroner’s inquest.

Responding, Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Paul Davies AM, said:

“It’s good that the First Minister has made this statement and that he will be releasing the leak report for scrutiny, but I can see no reason for postponing this and urge the First Minister to publish the report without delay. 

“It is essential that all members are able to fully scrutinise the actions of the former First Minister and members of his team.

“I hope that this step by the First Minister really does enable the family and friends of Carl to get the answers they deserve into the tragic events surrounding his death.”