On 5 March 2025, Cornwall Council and the British Government signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU strengthens Cornwall’s involvement in the British-Irish Council.
The MoU aims to help Cornwall connect better with other UK Celtic nations. It supports the Cornish language, culture, and heritage.
- British-Irish Council Agreement – Cornwall & UK Government (English)
- British-Irish Council Agreement – Cornwall & UK Government (Kernewek)
The MoU means that the Leader of Cornwall Council will be invited to:
- attend the Ministerial meeting of the British-Irish Council’s Indigenous, Minority and Lesser-Used Languages work sector
- act as an advisor to the UK Government Minister on the Cornish language.
The MoU was signed by:
- Councillor Linda Taylor, Leader of Cornwall Council and
- Jim McMahon OBE MP, Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution
Councillor Taylor said:
“The formal involvement of the Leader of Cornwall Council is a step in the right direction for the Cornish language. It builds on the other partnerships we are forging across the United Kingdom and beyond.”
“This is a real step forward for Kernewek. It shows our commitment to working with fellow Celtic nations and regions for the benefit of Cornwall.’’
She also mentioned her recent meeting with the First Minister of Wales. They renewed their commitment to the Cornwall-Wales Collaboration Agreement signed in 2023. She highlighted the Welsh Government's leadership in the British-Irish Council’s Indigenous, Minority, and Lesser-Used Languages work sector.
Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution Jim McMahon OBE MP stated;
“This agreement deepens the relationship between the UK Government and Cornwall Council. Cementing Cornwall’s role in the work of the British-Irish Council’’.
“Cornwall has a unique, rich culture and history. That’s why we’re inviting the Leader of Cornwall Council to attend BIC meetings on Indigenous and Minority Languages. Advising the UK Government on Kernewek.’’
Read the full press release: Cornwall's British and Irish Council role is given St Piran's Day boost