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Lib Dems to force Commons vote on new customs union with EU

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THE LIBERAL DEMOCRATS will force a vote in Parliament this week calling for the UK to begin negotiations on a new customs union with the European Union, stepping up pressure on the Labour government to soften its stance on Europe.

The move follows growing speculation of internal disagreements within the Labour cabinet over how far the UK should go in rebuilding economic ties with the EU. Ministers have repeatedly ruled out rejoining the single market or customs union, but pressure is mounting amid concerns over sluggish growth and rising taxes.

Ten Minute Rule Bill to be presented

Liberal Democrat Europe spokesperson Al Pinkerton MP will introduce a Ten Minute Rule Bill proposing that the UK formally open talks with Brussels on establishing a fresh customs union. The vote comes just two weeks after the UK Government’s budget, which included warnings about continuing economic headwinds.

The party says the financial case for improving trade arrangements is now overwhelming. Research by the House of Commons Library, commissioned by the Liberal Democrats, suggests the UK is losing around £250m a day in tax revenue as a result of Brexit’s economic impact. A separate analysis estimates that a more ambitious trade deal with the EU could bring in an additional £25bn a year for the Treasury.

Welsh businesses among hardest hit

Welsh firms have been particularly affected by post-Brexit trading disruption. A report published over the summer indicated that exports from Wales to the EU fell by around 31% between 2019 and 2024, while imports from the EU to Wales dropped by 20%.

The Liberal Democrats argue that a renewed customs agreement could also give greater protection to Welsh industries vulnerable to international market pressures, including steel. The party has suggested that closer alignment with Europe could help shield the sector from the impact of US tariffs and steel dumping by China.

‘The biggest lever to boost the Welsh economy’

Welsh Liberal Democrat Westminster spokesperson David Chadwick MP said the government could not continue to “bury its head in the sand” over Brexit’s economic consequences.

“The Chancellor has admitted the damage Brexit has done to our economy, including burying Welsh businesses in mountains of red tape, yet the government is refusing to take the steps needed to fix it,” he said.

“A customs union with the EU is the single biggest lever this government could pull to turbocharge the Welsh economy. We will work with MPs across Parliament who want a closer trading relationship with Europe, to cut red tape, boost growth, and properly fund our public services.”

The bill is unlikely to become law, but the vote is expected to increase political pressure on the government as debate intensifies over the future of UK–EU relations.

 

Community

RNLI lifeguards attend Freshwater West memorial service

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RNLI senior lifeguards Harry and Nia represented the charity at the annual Landing Craft Memorial Service at Freshwater West on Saturday (Apr 25).

The service is held each year to remember those connected with the wartime landing craft exercises and the area’s military history.

Freshwater West is one of 16 beaches across Pembrokeshire covered by RNLI lifeguards during the summer season.

The charity is reminding beachgoers to choose a lifeguarded beach whenever possible, swim between the red and yellow flags, and call 999 and ask for the Coastguard if they see someone in difficulty in the water.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the RNLI Lifeguard Service.

 

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Education

College learner receives prestigious Welsh award

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A PEMBROKESHIRE College learner has been recognised with a prestigious award celebrating her commitment, achievement and future potential.

Eleanor Edwards, a second-year Travel and Tourism learner, received the award from the Worshipful Livery Company of Wales as part of its annual College Awards programme.

The scheme supports young Welsh talent and recognises individuals undertaking academic and vocational studies, as well as members of the armed forces and those involved in community service.

Support for future career

The award will help Eleanor further develop her skills and broaden her learning experience through additional courses made possible by the funding.

The College said Eleanor’s success reflects both her hard work and ambition, as well as the high standard of vocational learning delivered at Pembrokeshire College.

Speaking on behalf of the Worshipful Livery Company of Wales, Sylvia Robert-Sargeant said: “We are delighted to have been involved in the selection of Eleanor Edwards as an outstanding second-year learner studying for a Diploma in Travel and Tourism at the College.

“We wish Eleanor every success, both in participating in the extra courses made possible by this award and in her future studies and career.”

Ambition to join cabin crew

Pembrokeshire College Principal Dr Barry Walters also congratulated Eleanor on her achievement.

Dr Walters said: “We are delighted to congratulate Eleanor on receiving a Worshipful Livery Company of Wales award.

“This achievement will support her continued progression, enabling her to gain the additional qualifications needed to pursue her ambition of a career in air cabin crew.

“We also extend our sincere thanks to the Worshipful Livery Company of Wales for their ongoing support and for the time invested in the selection process.”

The College said it was proud to see Eleanor acknowledged through the respected awards programme and wished her every success as she continues her studies and prepares for a future career in the travel and tourism industry.

Picture: Learner Eleanor Edwards with Sylvia Robert-Sargeant and Pembrokeshire College Principal Dr Barry Walters.

 

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News

Wildfires continue near Claerwen Dam as public told to avoid Elan Valley area

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Fire crews have been dealing with several wildfires in and around the Elan Valley since Sunday

FIREFIGHTERS are continuing to tackle wildfires near Claerwen Dam after a series of fires broke out in and around the Elan Valley area.

Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service said crews have been responding to several incidents since Sunday (Apr 26), with firefighting operations still ongoing near the dam.

Members of the public are being urged to avoid the area while emergency services remain at the scene.

The fire service said keeping roads and access routes clear is vital to allow fire appliances and other emergency vehicles to reach the affected areas safely.

Local residents have also been advised to keep windows and doors closed if there is thick smoke nearby.

The cause of the fires has not been confirmed.

Emergency crews remain in attendance and further updates are expected as the incident develops.

Cover image:

Big blaze: Fire crews at the scene (Pic: Rhayader Fire Station)

 

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