DURING First Minister’s Questions in the Welsh Parliament today, Welsh Conservatives leader Darren Millar MS demanded a Wales-wide inquiry into child sexual exploitation by grooming gangs.

Millar challenged the Welsh Labour Government’s response to the issue, urging action to ensure justice for victims. He pressed ministers on their communications with police, local authority social services, and other stakeholders to address the problem effectively.

Citing evidence that girls in Wales have been exploited by grooming gangs, Millar called for a formal inquiry to provide clarity and accountability.

Speaking after the session, Darren Millar MS said: “It’s clear that the Welsh Labour Government does not have a grip on the situation, despite evidence showing that child sexual exploitation by gangs has occurred in Wales.

“Only a Wales-wide inquiry can ensure sufficient attention and focus on this issue so that our children are protected from predatory behaviour.”

He added: “People in Wales deserve to know if there is another Rochdale or Rotherham on our doorsteps.”

THE WELSH CONSERVATIVE have used a Senedd debate to scrutinise the impact of Keir Starmer’s government policies on Wales during his first six months as Prime Minister.

Following Labour’s victory in the 2024 General Election, the Welsh Conservatives claim that Starmer’s administration has delivered sweeping policy changes and broken promises, which they argue have negatively affected the people of Wales.

From farmers under pressure to sell their land and pensioners losing their winter fuel allowance, to rising energy bills, a contracting economy, and the highest UK government borrowing costs in decades, Starmer’s early tenure has brought significant challenges to communities across the country.

Speaking after the debate, Samuel Kurtz, Senedd Member for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, criticised the government’s approach:

“It is shocking how swiftly the UK Government broke its pre-election promises not to burden working people with higher taxes. With inflation above target, it is ordinary families who are bearing the brunt, facing rising prices in the shops.

“Equally concerning is the Welsh Labour Government’s failure to stand up to Keir Starmer and defend Wales from damaging policies. Unlike Scotland, Welsh Labour refused to introduce a Welsh winter fuel payment system for pensioners and has abandoned our rural communities, which will be devastated by changes to inheritance tax rules.

“I call on the Welsh Labour Government to finally stand up for Wales and mitigate the harmful effects of Starmer’s policies. Their failure to act underscores the urgent need to end 25 years of Labour rule in Wales.”

Carmarthenshire County Council has issued an apology to residents affected by disruptions to recycling and waste collections during the Christmas and New Year period.

Residents are urged to report missed collections via the Council’s website to ensure prompt resolution. Additionally, major delays in specific areas can be checked on the waste disruptions webpage.

The Council acknowledged that collection services this festive season have fallen below expected standards. Efforts are underway to address the backlog, with teams working directly with collection crews to restore services.

A spokesperson highlighted longstanding challenges with bank holiday collections, including staff shortages. Crews are not contractually obligated to work on bank holidays or the following weekends, leading to difficulties in maintaining service levels.

Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste, and Infrastructure Services, Cllr Edward Thomas, said: “I sympathise with residents affected by the recent bin collection disruptions and understand their frustrations.

“We are working diligently to catch up on missed collections and are exploring solutions to prevent this from recurring. Engagement with staff and trade unions will be key to developing a plan that balances operational needs, staff views, and financial considerations.

“While most residual waste (black bag) and nappy waste collections were completed successfully, recycling collections faced significant challenges. High recycling volumes during the festive period, compounded by staff absences, vehicle breakdowns, and delays at transfer stations, led to widespread service failures.

“I apologise to residents once again and thank them for their understanding and patience during this challenging period.”

Residents are encouraged to log missed collections online and check for updates on delays.