News

Tory Welsh secretaries resolve electoral dilemma

Published

11 months ago

January 11, 2024

FORMER Secretaries of State for Wales, Simon Hart and Stephen Crabb, have amicably resolved their potential electoral clash in the upcoming general election. This agreement has put an end to what could have been a contentious selection battle in the region of West Wales.

Amidst the recent redrawing of constituency boundaries in Wales, which has reduced the number of Welsh MPs from 40 to 32, speculation was rife about a possible showdown between Hart and Crabb. Hart, the current MP for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire, and Crabb, representing Preseli Pembrokeshire, were both seen as potential contenders for a new seat.

However, sources from Nation.Cymru have confirmed that a mutual understanding has been reached. Simon Hart will contest the new seat of Caerfyrddin / Carmarthen, while Stephen Crabb will vie for the seat of Mid and South Pembrokeshire. A Welsh Conservative insider expressed relief at this outcome, highlighting the avoidance of a divisive selection process within the party.

The political landscape, however, remains challenging for the Conservative Party in both constituencies. According to the election predictor website, Electoral Calculus, the Labour Party holds a substantial lead in the polls. Projections suggest a Labour victory in both constituencies, with Henry Tufnell and Martha O’Neil leading in Mid and South Pembrokeshire and Caerfyrddin / Carmarthen, respectively.

Intriguingly, the predicted margins of victory underscore the impact of the Reform Party on Conservative prospects. Richard Tice, the Reform Party leader, has clarified that the party will not withdraw candidates to bolster Tory chances, potentially fracturing the conservative vote and benefiting Labour in marginal seats.

The predictions for Caerfyrddin / Carmarthen paint a bleaker picture for the Conservatives, with Simon Hart projected to finish third behind Labour’s O’Neil and Plaid Cymru’s Ann Davies. This forecast places Hart’s chances of victory at a mere 8%, further complicated by the potential candidacy of Jonathan Edwards, the current Independent MP.

Both Hart and Crabb have been influential figures within the Welsh Conservative Party. Crabb, an MP since 2005, served as Secretary of State for Wales from 2014 to 2016. Hart, elected in 2010, held the same position from 2019 until 2022 and is currently the Government Chief Whip. With the challenging electoral landscape in Caerfyrddin / Carmarthen, Hart reportedly has been assured of a seat in the House of Lords should he be unsuccessful in the election.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

22 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

1 day 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

1 day 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.