STEPHEN CRABB the current MP for Preseli Pembrokeshire has been selected in a meeting held on Friday (26 Jan) by Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion Conservative Federation to stand as the local Welsh Conservative candidate at the next general election.

With major changes to existing parliamentary seat boundaries taking effect at the next general election, Crabb will now enter the contest hoping to secure a majority in the new Mid and South Pembrokeshire seat.

Stephen is an influential local and national political figure and has served his home constituency since winning in 2005. He increased his majority at the last election in 2019 securing a majority of 5,062. He has served as Secretary of State for Wales, and is currently Chair of the Welsh Affairs Select Committee which cross-examines ministers on the impact of Government spending and policies on Wales. He has recently led inquiries into the scandal of sewage pollution in Wales and the problems at Welsh broadcaster S4C. Stephen has a reputation at Westminster for being able to work across party lines and build effective teams.

Growing up in Haverfordwest, Stephen benefitted from being part of a close-knit community, received an excellent education at Tasker Milward School, and had the security of living in good quality Council housing in Portfield Avenue. A keen sportsman, Stephen captained Tasker Milward 1st XV and represented the County at every age group until he left school. Stephen went on to achieve a first class degree at Bristol University. Stephen has always been grateful to have grown up in Pembrokeshire and has brought his passion for his home county to his work over the past 18 years.

Stephen Crabb MP said: “I am delighted to be selected as the Welsh Conservative Candidate for the new Mid and South Pembrokeshire seat. It’s been a huge privilege to represent my home constituency of Preseli Pembrokeshire at Westminster since 2005, and I am thrilled to have been given the opportunity to seek re-election. I have a strong record of action and delivery for residents in Preseli Pembrokeshire and I look forward to continuing this work and building on it in South Pembrokeshire.”

“Pembrokeshire is a fabulous place to live and grow up, and I want it to stay that way. We face some big challenges that require real knowledge, local experience and a ‘Team Pembrokeshire’ approach. That is what motivates me.”

“I will continue to work closely with both our local MS’s Paul Davies and Sam Kurtz, and, of course, my good friend Simon Hart who continues to be the MP for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire as well as our fantastic group of Conservative Councillors to keep delivering results as we build towards a general election.”

Paul Davies MS for Preseli Pembrokeshire said: “I am delighted that Stephen has been adopted as the Welsh Conservative candidate for the upcoming General Election. I’ve had the privilege of working with Stephen for many years now and his commitment to the people of Pembrokeshire is second to none.”

“He’s a man of Pembrokeshire, who fights for Pembrokeshire – and he has worked tirelessly over the years to support local people, businesses, and organisations. He has a record of delivery in supporting constituents on their personal journeys, showing leadership throughout the covid pandemic by bringing together organisations through roundtable discussions, and advocating for Pembrokeshire businesses – whether that’s championing our fantastic farmers, anchoring support for the Celtic Freeport or working with our small businesses.”

“Stephen has my full support and I look forward to campaigning with him.”

Mike Bryan, Chair of Pembrokeshire Conservatives said: “I am pleased that Stephen has been selected to fight the new Mid and South Pembrokeshire seat Having campaigned with Stephen at every election since 2001, I know what an excellent servant he has been to Pembrokeshire. He is local, understands local issues and is a part of our community. We have a challenging campaign ahead, but I am convinced that we have right person to continue to put Pembrokeshire first.”

Sam Kurtz, MS for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire said: “Having worked closely with Stephen for nearly 8 years, I know of his dedicated commitment to Pembrokeshire and its people.”

“As a Member of Parliament, Stephen has long championed our local industries, from farming to tourism and those on the Haven Waterway.”

“Stephen has also stood shoulder to shoulder with constituents and communities who needed his support and has a track record to be proud of.”

“I’m thrilled that Stephen is our candidate for Mid and South Pembrokeshire, and I look forward working alongside him in championing Pembrokeshire in a positive General Election campaign.”

Photo above: Stephen Crabb MP has been selected to stand as the Welsh Conservative candidate in the Mid and South Pembrokeshire seat at the next General Election.