News

GDP contraction ‘casts doubt’ on Labour’s economic claims, say Tories

Published

6 months ago

June 13, 2025

Welsh Conservatives accuse Chancellor of political spin, while Labour defends benefits pledge, amid Winter Fuel Payment U-turn

THE UK economy shrank by 0.3% in April, according to the latest figures released by the Office for National Statistics—news that has reignited political debate over Labour’s recent U-turn on Winter Fuel Payments for pensioners.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, had earlier this week claimed that the reinstatement of Winter Fuel Payments was made possible due to an improving economic outlook. But the announcement of a contraction has prompted criticism from opposition parties, who say the justification no longer holds.

South Wales Central MS and former leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies, accused Labour of making politically motivated decisions rather than ones rooted in economic reality.

Mr Davies said: “Earlier this week, Rachel Reeves ludicrously tried to claim she would reinstate Winter Fuel Payments thanks to an improving economy – just days later, our economy shrank.

“This proves what we all knew – scrapping Winter Fuel Payments was not motivated by economics – it was a foolish move to attempt to look tough, targeting vulnerable pensioners in the process.

“Following a backlash, Labour has u-turned – but they don’t even have the decency to admit they got it wrong. Pensioners will not forgive and forget this betrayal.”

The payments, worth up to £300 per household, provide support to older people during the winter months to help with heating costs. Labour had initially proposed to restrict access to the scheme as part of a broader review of universal benefits, but reversed the position following widespread criticism from charities, pensioner groups, and political opponents.

Labour has defended the decision to reinstate the payments, arguing that the policy was under review and that the commitment reflects their continued support for older people.

A spokesperson for the Treasury said: “The Chancellor has made clear that our priority is protecting the most vulnerable while maintaining economic stability. The decision to maintain Winter Fuel Payments aligns with that objective.”

The latest GDP figures reflect broader volatility in the UK economy, with some sectors experiencing downturns due to high interest rates and ongoing global uncertainty. Economists cautioned against reading too much into a single month’s figures, though the data will add pressure on the new government to demonstrate steady economic leadership.

The row highlights the difficult balancing act Labour faces as it seeks to restore fiscal credibility while protecting welfare spending—a challenge that is likely to remain a central feature of the political debate in the months ahead.

Community

Community gathers to remember Corrina Baker

Published

8 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Lanterns and balloons released in emotional acts of remembrance

FAMILY, friends and members of the local community came together to remember Corrina Baker at a series of moving events held across west Wales this week.

Corrina’s funeral took place on Monday (Dec 15), a month after her death, with a public service held at St Mary’s Church. Mourners lined the route as her coffin was carried on its final journey in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, before a private cremation later took place at Parc Gwyn crematorium in Narberth.

Later that evening, shortly after 6:00pm, friends and relatives gathered at the Quayside in Cardigan for the first of two acts of remembrance to celebrate her life. Lanterns were lit and released into the night sky above the town as some of Corrina’s favourite songs were played.

On Tuesday afternoon (Dec 16), a second tribute was held near the location where Corrina was found. Twenty-one pink balloons — one for each year of her life — were released into a clear blue sky, each carrying personal messages in her memory.

Floral tributes continue to be laid at the Netpool, while a GoFundMe appeal set up in Corrina’s memory has raised more than £2,300. She has been described by those who knew her as “funny and bright”.

Dyfed-Powys Police have confirmed that their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms Baker’s death is ongoing. A 29-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released on bail while inquiries continue.

(Photos: Stuart Ladd/Herald)

Community

Six untaxed vehicles seized in Milford Haven police operation

Published

8 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

SIX untaxed and abandoned vehicles were seized during a joint roads policing operation in Milford Haven on Tuesday morning.

Officers from the Milford Haven Neighbourhood Policing and Prevention Team (NPPT) worked alongside the Pembrokeshire Roads Policing Team as part of targeted enforcement across the town.

In addition to the vehicle seizures, a number of traffic offence reports were issued to drivers during the operation.

Police said the action formed part of ongoing efforts to improve road safety and tackle vehicle-related offences in the Milford Haven area.

Community

Candlelit carol service brings community together in Milford Haven

Published

9 hours ago

December 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

ST KATHARINE and St Peter’s Church in Milford Haven hosted its annual Candlelit Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, bringing together members of the community for a traditional celebration of Christmas.

The service featured readings from the Mayor of Milford Haven, representatives of the Soroptimists, Milford Haven Amateur Operatic Society, the Headteacher and Head Prefects of Milford Haven School, Milford Haven Town Band, and NCI Wooltack Point.

Music for the evening was provided by organist Seimon Morris, Milford Haven Town Band and the Milford Haven Cluster Band, whose performances added to the atmosphere of the candlelit service.

The Friends of St Katharine and St Peter’s Church thanked all those involved and wished the community a happy Christmas.