First Minister of Wales Carwyn Jones speaks before the UEFA Champions League draw of the semi-finals Thomson Reuters LONDON (Reuters) - The head of the devolved government in Wales, Carwyn Jones, said on Saturday he intends to stand down in the second half of this year, BBC news reported on Saturday. Party leaders have given their support following the shock announcement:

Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT said despite being on "opposites sides" of politics, he wished Carwyn Jones well. Former minister Leighton Andrews has said that Mr Sargeant, who is believed to have taken his own life four days after being removed from his role as cabinet secretary for communities and children while facing allegations of inappropriate behaviour, was “unquestionably the target” of some of the behaviour and “toxic” atmosphere. The 51-year-old Jones, a Welsh-speaking former barrister and member of Britain's Labour party that opposes Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May, has been first minister of Wales since December 2009. Image caption Carwyn Jones said his wife Lisa and his family had "carried me through the darkest of times"

Referring to his wife and family, the first minister told party delegates: "I don't think anyone can know what the last few months have been like - no one apart from Lisa and the kids. I have asked too much of them, and it is time for me to think about what’s fair for them.”

On the inquiry he said: “I intend – as I’ve always maintained – to be here to give every answer to every question. "I intend to stand down as your leader in the autumn allowing for a new first minister to take their place by the end of this year. For my family, for my party and for my country.”

He added: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together so far.
Welsh First Minister Carwyn Jones announces his plans to step down this autumn.