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Leaders of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland (NI) are set to make an unprecedented joint declaration on Monday, intensifying calls for greater self-determination and the right to hold independence referendums.
Scottish First Minister John Swinney, Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth and Northern Ireland’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill are due to meet in Cardiff, where they are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding calling for greater constitutional powers and the right of their nations to determine their own futures.
The meeting comes as pro-independence parties hold power in all three devolved administrations for the first time.
The leaders are expected to discuss independence, economic cooperation, energy, relations with Europe and greater self-government.
Swinney has argued that the current constitutional arrangement is no longer sustainable and said Westminster must prepare for a post-UK future.
Scottish officials have also stressed that another independence referendum remains a possibility.
The UK government, however, has rejected the prospect of another Scottish independence vote for now, arguing that there is no clear consensus in Scotland for one.
The issue has nevertheless gained fresh momentum following recent comments by Prime Minister Andy Burnham suggesting a referendum could be authorised if a clear majority emerged in favour.
The future of Northern Ireland is also expected to feature prominently in the discussions, with Sinn Féin continuing to advocate Irish reunification.
The developments have fuelled speculation over whether the United Kingdom could eventually face a major constitutional breakup, although no immediate dissolution of the UK is under way.
