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Welsh Conservatives congratulate Trump amid growing backlash in Wales

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THE WELSH CONSERVATIVES have extended their congratulations to President Donald J. Trump ahead of his inauguration, with Darren Millar MS urging the Welsh Labour Government to strengthen ties with the United States. The announcement has sparked controversy, with anti-racism campaigners demanding a retraction of comments made by Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan defending Trump.

Conservative endorsement

Darren Millar MS, leader of the Welsh Conservatives, stated: “I would like to extend my congratulations to President Trump on his inauguration. His return to the White House signals a conservative resurgence on the other side of the Atlantic which is welcome.”

Millar criticised Labour for what he described as undermining the UK’s “special relationship” with the US, pointing to Labour activists’ anti-Trump stance and the absence of the Prime Minister at the inauguration.

He added:
“In the interests of global peace, trade links, and economic development, deepening our ties with the incoming administration will be paramount.”

Backlash from anti-racism groups

Millar’s remarks coincide with growing calls for First Minister Eluned Morgan to apologise for comments made in November, where she expressed doubt about Trump’s alleged racism. During a BBC interview, Morgan remarked:
“I shouldn’t think he is, to be honest. There were a hell of a lot of black people and Latinos who voted for him in the election.”

This has sparked criticism from Welsh anti-racism groups, including Stand Up To Racism, Black Lives Matter, and MEND. In an open letter signed by nearly 100 campaigners, the groups condemned Morgan’s comments as “reckless,” accusing her of downplaying Trump’s history of inflammatory rhetoric.

Hussein Said, Chair of Stand Up To Racism Cardiff, stated:
“To dismiss the racism of Trump is to ignore the very real ways in which he emboldens far-right and fascist figures here in the UK. The Islamophobia and anti-migrant rhetoric they use should never be legitimised.”

The letter also highlighted Trump’s divisive policies, such as the Muslim travel ban and mass deportation plans, which they argue are antithetical to human rights.

Royal visit speculation

Meanwhile, Downing Street has hinted at a possible royal visit to the US to cement the UK-US “special relationship.” A government source said:
“Donald Trump has a clear affinity for the royal family. A royal tour to the US would help reinforce the special relationship.”

The meeting could coincide with America’s 250th Independence Day celebrations, where Trump has pledged to host “the best of all time” events.

Divided opinions in Wales

Trump’s inauguration has reignited debates in Wales over the UK’s relationship with the US under his leadership. While some, like Millar, see an opportunity to rebuild transatlantic ties, others warn against legitimising what they view as a divisive and dangerous administration.

The Herald will continue to follow the implications of these developments for Wales.

Crime

Haverfordwest retailer accused of Bounce Back Loan fraud

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A HAVERFORDWEST businessman has been accused of committing fraud by making false representations to multiple banks in applications for Government-backed Bounce Back Loans.

Zahid Afzal, 36, of Albert Street, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (Feb 6), where he pleaded not guilty to three charges of fraud by false representation.

The court heard that Afzal, listed on Companies House as a director of Phone Bits Ltd and Phones Onn Ltd, allegedly made false statements to secure loans intended to support businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Phone Bits phone accessory and repair shop in Haverfordwest

Prosecutors claim that on May 12, 2020, he falsely stated to Barclays Bank that the application for a Bounce Back Loan was Phone Bits Ltd’s only application. It is further alleged that he made similar false claims to Starling Bank on July 23, 2020, and to Metro Bank on November 22, 2020, in relation to Phones Onn Ltd.

The alleged misrepresentations included inflating the company’s turnover to £200,000 and falsely claiming the loans would be used solely for business purposes.

Afzal’s case has been sent to Swansea Crown Court for trial, with a hearing scheduled for March 10. He was granted unconditional bail.

An interpreter will be required for the proceedings, as Afzal requires assistance in Urdu.

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Charity

Young fundraiser’s incredible efforts for RNLI

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THE CREW of Tenby RNLI have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to 5-year-old Archie Garland for his outstanding fundraising efforts in support of the station.

Archie took part in the Advent Challenge with the Tenby Aces over Christmas, running a minimum of one mile every day throughout Advent. His dedication saw him cover an impressive 47.3 miles, raising a remarkable £552.25 thanks to generous donations from the local community.

Archie is pictured with (L-R): Deputy Coxswain Gary Waring, his dad and Deputy Coxswain Rob Garland, Deputy Coxswain Dan Young, station full-time mechanic Will Horton, and his mum, Tenby Aces member Claire Thomas.

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Crime

Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn launches ambitious four-year policing plan

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Public trust at the heart of new strategy

DYFED-POWYS Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn has unveiled his four-year Police and Crime Plan for 2025-2029, outlining his vision to strengthen public trust and confidence in policing.

Plan to strengthen public’s trust in local police service: Dafydd Llywelyn

The plan, shaped by extensive public consultation, sets out priorities for policing, crime prevention, and the criminal justice system across Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Powys. It follows feedback from surveys and focus groups, where residents highlighted their key concerns.

The three core priorities of the plan are:

  • Supporting victims and preventing victimisation
  • Preventing harm to ensure safer communities
  • Enhancing the effectiveness of the justice system

Llywelyn formally launched the plan on Tuesday (Feb 13) at an event attended by key partners and commissioned services. The event focused on collaboration, with discussions on how joint efforts can strengthen crime prevention, victim support, and justice delivery.

Victims at the centre

Commissioner Llywelyn emphasised the importance of ensuring victims receive the right support.

“This plan is built on the views of our communities, focusing on what truly matters to the people of Mid and West Wales,” he said. “Victims must be at the heart of our policing and justice system. It is essential that those affected by crime have access to timely, effective support to help them recover and seek justice. Strengthening services that prevent victimisation is just as important as responding to crime itself.”

Tackling root causes of crime

The plan also prioritises crime prevention by addressing underlying issues.

“By tackling antisocial behaviour and vulnerability, we can reduce harm and build a more resilient society,” Llywelyn said. “A proactive, problem-solving approach will ensure resources are used effectively to protect our communities.”

A joined-up approach to justice

Llywelyn stressed the need for stronger collaboration across the justice system.

“A fair and efficient justice system relies on agencies working together. I will continue to work closely with partners to ensure that policing, the courts, and support services deliver justice fairly and effectively for victims and communities alike.”

The Police and Crime Plan sets out a clear vision for Dyfed-Powys policing over the next four years, focusing on improving public safety, supporting victims, and delivering an efficient justice system.

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