News

Top Welsh Tory unfazed amid leadership controversy

Published

3 months ago

August 13, 2024

ANDREW RT DAVIES, the leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, has stated he does not believe his leadership is under threat despite growing criticism over his recent remarks and the conduct of a member of his party.

Mr Davies has come under fire for his comments concerning halal meat and the future of the Senedd, as well as his handling of inappropriate language used by Conservative MS, Laura Anne Jones. Jones was recently ousted from Mr Davies’s shadow cabinet following the revelation that she used a racist slur to describe Chinese people in a WhatsApp message. She is also currently under police investigation regarding her expenses.

Despite these controversies, Mr Davies appeared to dismiss the idea of suspending Ms Jones, telling BBC Radio Wales Breakfast that none of his colleagues had proposed such action. He noted that Ms Jones had issued “a full and wholesome apology” for her use of what he termed “wholly inappropriate language.”

“What do we do these days? Do we take people out and tar and feather them, or do we accept an apology, understand that people learn the lessons from their mistake, and move on?” Mr Davies queried.

The Welsh Conservative leader’s remarks come as concerns grow within his party over his social media conduct. Some members of the Conservative Senedd group have privately voiced their unease, with one member reportedly considering calling for an emergency meeting before the end of the summer recess in September.

One party insider described Mr Davies’s social media posts as increasingly “difficult to defend,” suggesting that if the situation continues to deteriorate, his position could become “untenable,” potentially leading to a leadership challenge.

In a separate incident, Mr Davies faced accusations of “Islamophobic race-baiting” from the Muslim Council of Wales. The allegations stemmed from a GB News article penned by Mr Davies, in which he argued that children “should not be forced to eat halal school lunches.” The article followed a complaint from a constituent in Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan, who claimed non-halal meat was unavailable at her daughter’s school. However, the school later refuted the claim, stating on social media, “The statement that all meat options are halal only is incorrect.”

Mr Davies has vehemently denied the race-baiting accusations, insisting that his concerns were purely about providing choice.

Further criticism has also come from within his own party. Lord Nick Bourne, a former leader of the Welsh Conservatives, criticised Mr Davies for a social media post in which he questioned whether the Senedd should be abolished. Mr Davies later clarified that neither he nor his party supports the abolition of the Welsh Parliament.

As the summer recess continues, the pressure on Mr Davies shows little sign of abating, with questions remaining over how long he can maintain his leadership amidst the ongoing controversies.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

7 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

7 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!

Community

Milford Haven Business Circle launches litter-free zone initiative

Published

8 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling on the community to join the launch of its new Litter-Free Zone.

In partnership with Keep Wales Tidy Pembrokeshire, the initiative aims to create a cleaner, greener town centre while promoting environmental responsibility and community pride.

The event marks a collective effort to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a litter-free environment and highlights the far-reaching benefits of a cleaner town centre.

The organisation says that a cleaner, more attractive town centre is key to drawing visitors and potential investors.

This initiative is expected to stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and encouraging growth in Milford Haven.

The project not only enhances the town’s appearance but also instils a sense of pride among residents. By improving cleanliness, the initiative aims to encourage more community participation in local events and activities.

Reducing litter has significant environmental benefits, including:

Protecting Wildlife: Preventing harm to animals caused by ingestion or entanglement.
Cleaner Air and Water: Reducing pollution in streets and waterways, fostering healthier ecosystems.
Sustainable Practices: Encouraging recycling and proper waste disposal to cut down on the town’s environmental footprint.
Creating Green Spaces: Supporting the development of habitats, recreational areas, and improved air quality for residents.

The Milford Haven Business Circle believes this initiative will set a strong example for other communities, demonstrating the power of collective action in fostering a sustainable future.

By joining this movement, participants can contribute to making Milford Haven a shining example of environmental care and community cooperation. Let’s work together to transform our town into a cleaner, greener space for all to enjoy.

Stay tuned for event details and updates. Together, we can make a difference!