The wife of Wales’ First Minister Mark Drakeford has died suddenly, the Welsh Government has confirmed.
A spokesman said: “It is with deep sadness that we confirm the sudden passing of Clare Drakeford, wife of the First Minister.
“The thoughts of everyone in the Welsh Government are with the family at this time and we ask that their privacy is respected.”
Mr Drakeford has been First Minister of Wales since 2018.
During the coronavirus pandemic, Mr Drakeford moved into a building in his garden to protect his wife and mother-in-law, who he said had been shielding.
The family have lived in the Pontcanna area of Cardiff for 30 years. Mr Drakeford and his wife have three adult children together.
Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon paid her respects, writing: “My thoughts are with Mark and his family at this terribly sad time.
“On the occasions I met Clare it was obvious how strong the bond between her and Mark was, and I can only imagine the depth of grief he is feeling. Sending him love and strength.”
The leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, Andrew RT Davies, said he was “shocked and deeply saddened” to hear of her death.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Mark Drakeford and his family at this exceptionally difficult time,” he said.
“On the occasions I met Clare, she was always a lovely lady and was very warm and kind.”
abour leader Sir Keir Starmer sent his condolences, following the death of Clare Drakeford.
“I’m deeply shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Clare Drakeford,” he said in a statement.
“On behalf of the whole Labour Party, I send our deepest condolences to Mark and all the family. I know just how close they were as a couple, and I can only imagine the sense of loss Mark and the whole family are feeling.
“They are all in our thoughts and prayers.”
Rishi Sunak sent his “heartfelt condolences” to the family, tweeting: “Incredibly sad to hear about the sudden death of Clare Drakeford.
“I know how committed Mark and Clare were to each other. I can’t imagine the pain Mark and his family will now be feeling.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to them.”
The Prince and Princess of Wales said: “Sending our thoughts and prayers to Mark Drakeford and his family. W & C,” William and Kate tweeted from their official Twitter account.
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