We urge the UK Government to formally recognize Cornwall as a nation, granting it equal status to Wales and Scotland. This includes devolved powers, cultural preservation, and official recognition of Cornwall’s distinct heritage, language, and historic autonomy.
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Cornwall has a rich cultural and historical identity, distinct from the rest of England, with its own language, Kernewek, and heritage. Despite being part of the UK, Cornwall's history as a Duchy reflects its unique status. We think granting Cornwall nation status would preserve its culture, promote self-governance, and could empower its people to address local issues.
Monday 15th September 2025
Government policy is to grant greater powers and ensure preservation of local culture, heritage and language through empowered Mayors of Strategic Authorities.
The UK Government supports devolution and local governance across the whole United Kingdom, recognising the importance of cultural identities and regional voices. We remain committed to ensuring effective devolution arrangements to serve the diverse needs of communities across the UK, including in Cornwall.
Devolution is about moving power out of Westminster and back to those who know their areas best. With strong local leadership and empowered institutions, our regions can take the decisions that drive the change they want to see by establishing Strategic Authorities – a number of councils working together over areas that people recognise and work in. Cornwall’s National Minority Status does not prevent it from partnering with neighbouring authorities and Government would ensure that this status would be preserved in any future devolution arrangement. The Government does not plan to change Cornwall’s constitutional status otherwise.
The benefits of devolution are best achieved where there is a mayor in place, to provide strong local leadership and accountability. Our intention remains to continue to fill the map, extending devolution to all corners of England in partnership with local areas, including Cornwall, wherever possible.
Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government