News

Welsh Conservatives ask voters to send a message to Labour: ‘Enough is enough’

Published

3 months ago

June 21, 2024

THE WELSH CONSERVATIVES are rallying voters to use their voice on Thursday, July 4th, to signal that 25 years of Labour governance in Wales is enough. However, the question remains whether their message will resonate with the electorate amidst predictions of a near-wipeout for the Tories in Wales.

Since 1999, Labour has overseen critical areas such as the Welsh NHS, education, transport, housing, rural affairs, and job creation. According to the Conservatives, this quarter-century of Labour rule has left Wales with the longest NHS waiting lists in the UK, the poorest educational outcomes, and the lowest employment levels in the country.

Unveiling the Welsh Conservative manifesto in Kinmel Bay this morning, David TC Davies highlighted their achievements, stating, “We have a strong record of action in Wales, from cutting taxes and putting £700 back into the pockets of hardworking Welsh workers, to delivering two freeports which will create thousands of jobs and investing over £2.5 billion to support transport, tourism, heritage, and culture across Wales.

“This is just the start. Our bold plan for Wales will go further so that people in Wales keep more of their hard-earned money to spend on what they want, not what the government wants. We will continue to bring investment and jobs to Wales, so that people can provide for their families and enjoy the security of home ownership. We will make sure our children have the best start in life, with access to opportunities they never thought possible.

“Labour’s lack of ambition for Wales is clear for all to see – Labour in Westminster and Wales ruling out the electrification of the North Wales main line. Only the Conservatives will deliver for North Wales.

“It is only by voting Welsh Conservative can our clear plan, with bold action be put in place and deliver a secure future for Wales.”

Andrew RT Davies MS echoed these sentiments, calling for a change in leadership: “Keir Starmer said that Labour in Wales was his blueprint for what he would do to the rest of the UK. Here in Wales, we know that is a stark warning as we suffer with 20,000 people waiting two years or more for treatment, a 50/50 chance of an ambulance arriving in our hour of need and 20mph speed limits hitting the Welsh economy by up to £9 billion. That is what 25 years of Labour in power looks like.

“But it doesn’t have to be like this. We have a plan to save our Welsh NHS, a plan to kickstart our economy and a plan to get Wales moving. On the 4th of July, it is essential that people use their voice to tell Labour that enough is enough and that Wales deserves better.”

At the heart of the Welsh Conservative election manifesto, set to be published on Friday, is the pledge to reverse Wales’ controversial 20mph speed limit policy by giving people a legal right to challenge existing zones. The policy, introduced by former First Minister Mark Drakeford’s government, has faced significant backlash despite figures showing a reduction in road injuries.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Welsh Secretary David TC Davies, and Tory Senedd leader Andrew RT Davies will present the manifesto in Kinmel Bay, Conwy. Mr Sunak will describe Wales as a “great country, but a country let down by Labour,” which has led the Welsh government since devolution 25 years ago.

Additional neighbourhood police officers and a £1bn investment plan to electrify the North Wales main rail line will also feature prominently in the document. The electrification project, initially announced by Mr Sunak in October 2023 after cancelling the second leg of the HS2 high-speed rail line, aims to revitalise transport infrastructure in North Wales. However, transport experts estimate the actual cost could exceed £1.5bn.

During the manifesto launch, Mr Sunak is expected to criticise Welsh Labour’s priorities, accusing them of focusing solely on maintaining power. He will highlight initiatives like lowering the voting age to 16 in Senedd and local elections and increasing the number of Senedd members as examples of Labour’s self-serving strategies.

Despite calling the election last month, Mr Sunak has not seen a significant reduction in Labour’s lead in opinion polls. David TC Davies, expressing scepticism about Labour’s predicted victory, suggested that any Labour majority would lack enthusiastic support from the electorate.

As the July 4th election approaches, the Welsh Conservatives are emphasising the need for a dramatic shift in governance, advocating for policies they believe will rejuvenate Wales and rectify the issues they attribute to 25 years of Labour control.

Crime

Woman, 70, admits causing death of baby in by dangerous driving

Published

8 hours ago

September 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

A 70-YEAR-OLD woman has pleaded guilty to causing the tragic death of an eight-month-old baby in a pram by dangerous driving outside a hospital in West Wales.

Bridget Carole Curtis admitted the charge at Swansea Crown Court, where she faced allegations of causing the death of baby Mabli Cariad Hall on 21 June last year. The incident occurred outside Withybush Hospital in Pembrokeshire, where Mabli was being pushed in her pram when a white BMW, driven by Curtis, struck the child near the hospital’s entrance.

Mabli was airlifted to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff and later transferred to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, she died four days later as a result of severe traumatic brain injuries.

During the court proceedings, Judge Geraint Walters disqualified Curtis from driving and ordered psychiatric and pre-sentence reports to be conducted ahead of her sentencing. Curtis, who had held a full, clean driving licence and had no prior convictions, voluntarily surrendered her licence following the incident.

John Dye, representing Curtis, informed the court of her deep remorse, stating: “She is absolutely devastated to be here.”

Mabli’s family, speaking through a statement issued by Dyfed-Powys Police, expressed the profound grief they continue to endure since the loss of their daughter. “This last year has been the most horrendous time of our lives. Our family life has been changed forever, and to this day we are still trying to come to terms with what has happened. Every day is a day of pain for us, even now, but as parents, we still have to give the love and support our other children need as they are still trying to come to terms with losing their baby sister.”

The family also extended their gratitude to the police and the 2Wish charity, which has provided them with vital support during this tragic period.

Curtis is set to appear at Swansea Crown Court for sentencing on November 22.

Crime

Police make arrest following allegation of sexual assault in Milford Haven

Published

8 hours ago

September 20, 2024

Tom Sinclair

SCENES of crime officers were at The Water Gardens in Milford Haven on Friday (Sept 20) following reports of a sexual assault.

Police said that they have the alleged assailant in custody.

A spokesperson told The Pembrokeshire herald in a statement: “Dyfed-Powys Police received a report of a sexual assault which occurred at around 9pm on Thursday, September 19, in the vicinity of the Rath, Milford Haven.

“One person has been arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and remains in police custody. The victim is being supported by specialist officers.

“Residents will see an increased police presence in the area whilst the investigation continues.”

News

Storms brewing: Pembrokeshire braces for weekend washout

Published

9 hours ago

September 20, 2024

Luke Sinclair

The Met Office has issued two yellow weather warnings for Pembrokeshire this weekend, as thunderstorms and heavy rain are expected to cause significant disruptions across the county.

The first warning is in effect on Saturday, 21st September, from 1am until 11.59pm. Thunderstorms and heavy showers are forecast, bringing the potential for flooding, power cuts, and, in some cases, a risk to life.

A second warning has been issued for Sunday, 22nd September, also running from midnight until 11.59pm. This time, heavy rain is expected to impact the region, again causing potential disruptions.

What to Expect on Saturday, 21st September

The Met Office has warned that the thunderstorms and heavy showers could lead to several issues:

• Difficult driving conditions and road closures due to spray and sudden flooding
• Potential for some communities to become cut off by flooded roads
• Delays or cancellations to bus and train services
• Power cuts and disruptions to other services
• Homes and businesses may experience rapid flooding, with potential damage from floodwater, lightning, hail, or strong winds
• Fast-flowing or deep floodwater may pose a danger to life

A Met Office spokesperson added: “While there is some uncertainty in the details, scattered showers and thunderstorms are likely to develop and spread northwestwards at times later on Friday night and throughout Saturday. Although much of the time will remain dry, where storms do occur, 20-40mm of rain could fall in under an hour, with the possibility of 50-70mm over a few hours. Hail and frequent lightning may also accompany the most intense storms, particularly during Saturday afternoon and evening.”

What to Expect on Sunday, 22nd September

On Sunday, the primary concern will be heavy rain, with the Met Office warning of similar risks to those on Saturday, including:

• Difficult driving conditions and temporary road closures due to spray and flooding
• Rural communities could become temporarily cut off
• Significant delays or cancellations to public transport services
• Homes and businesses may experience flooding, with potential structural damage
• Power cuts and loss of other essential services

The Met Office spokesperson noted: “Showers and thunderstorms are expected to merge into broader areas of heavy rain across parts of Wales, central, and southern England on Sunday. There is the potential for rainfall totals of 30-50mm in less than six hours, with some areas seeing 60-80mm over 12-24 hours.”

Southwest England is also expected to be affected by heavy rain early on Sunday morning, which may develop into slow-moving, heavy downpours during the day.

How to Prepare for the Weather Warnings

The Met Office has provided advice to help residents prepare for the incoming weather and reduce risks. A spokesperson said:

“Consider whether your location is at risk of flash flooding and, if so, prepare a flood plan and an emergency flood kit.”
“Secure any loose outdoor items, such as bins, garden furniture, and trampolines, before strong winds arrive.”
“Check road conditions and public transport timetables before travelling to avoid delays.”
“Prepare for power cuts by gathering torches, batteries, and other essentials, such as a mobile phone power pack.”
“If you find yourself outside during a storm, seek shelter in an enclosed space such as a car, and avoid trees or structures that could be struck by lightning.”
“In elevated areas, move to lower ground for safety.”

The yellow weather warnings are expected to remain in place from 1am on Saturday, 21st September, until 11.59pm on Sunday, 22nd September. Residents are advised to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts and to be prepared for any changes to the warnings.