National Screen and Sound Archive of Wales preserves and celebrates the sound and moving image heritage of Wales, making it accessible to a wide range of users for enjoyment and learning. Its film collection reflects every aspect of the nation’s social, cultural and working life across the 20th century, giving a fascinating insight into Welsh filmmaking, both amateur and professional.
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Rali Senedd i Gymru, Machynlleth 1949
What do we want? A parliament for Wales. When do we want it? Within 5 years. Plaid Cymru members, including Gwynfor Evans and D J Williams, gather at a rally in Machynlleth.
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Overview
All those interested in a parliament for Wales gather in Machynlleth on 1/10/1949 for a rally comprising a march, speakers and entertainment. This rally preceded the official launch of the Campaign for a Welsh Parliament (Ymgyrch Senedd i Gymru) which took place on 1/7/1950 at a rally in Llandrindod, leading to the presentation of a petition bearing 240,652 names to the House of Commons in 1956.
The Campaign for a Welsh Parliament helped to secure a Welsh Office and a Secretary of State for Wales but it was to be 1997 before Wales achieved its own National Assembly, the first referendum in 1979 failing to obtain the majority vote required. In 2011, the Assembly gained enhanced law-making powers. The Welsh Government, accountable to the National Assembly, is formed by the party – or coalition of parties – holding most seats in the Assembly.
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