News

Eluned Morgan voted in as Wales’ first female First Minister

Published

2 years ago

August 6, 2024

Eluned Morgan has been voted in as Wales’ first female First Minister, taking the reins at a critical juncture for the country. With the official confirmation occurring today, Ms Morgan becomes the sixth person to hold the role. Eluned Morgan was elected Welsh Labour leader on 24 July after Vaughan Gething triggered the second leadership contest of the year for the party by standing down. The process, expected to stretch into autumn, was expedited as Mrs Morgan was the sole candidate and thus elected unopposed.

In her inaugural speech as First Minister, Mrs Morgan expressed that it was the “greatest honour of my life” to be Wales’ first female MS, a statement met with applause. Reflecting on her upbringing in Ely, Cardiff, she shared how her early experiences of inequality shaped her commitment to listening and addressing the concerns of all communities.

Mrs Morgan reiterated her vision for a “fairer, greener and more prosperous” Wales, highlighting her dedication to public service spanning 30 years, from the European Parliament to Westminster, and the Senedd. She pledged to be a “listening First Minister, not just to those who shout the loudest” and to lead a government driven by “a sense of service and respect for the people I serve.”

Addressing the internal challenges within the Labour group, she emphasised her focus on issues that genuinely impact communities. She spoke of creating opportunities for everyone to contribute to Wales’ shared success, regardless of background, and stressed the importance of restoring public trust in politics. “Our differences can be a source of strength, not division,” she remarked, underscoring her commitment to inclusivity.

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth congratulated Mrs Morgan, noting the historic significance of her appointment. He reiterated his party’s call for an early election, citing Labour’s internal conflicts and the need for a mandate under the new leadership. He questioned how Mrs Morgan would reset the relationship between the Welsh and UK governments and address the pressing challenges Wales faces.

Conservative group leader Andrew RT Davies also extended his congratulations, acknowledging the “significant moment” and the new dynamic a female First Minister brings. He raised concerns about the challenges ahead and the need for engagement with Parliament during the recess. Mr Davies asked about the energy Mrs Morgan would bring to her new role and sought clarification on the functioning of the deputy First Minister.

Mrs Morgan concluded her speech with a commitment to lead a government that is proactive and responsive to the needs of the Welsh people. She highlighted her dedication to fighting poverty through economic growth, improving the NHS and education system, and addressing the climate and nature emergencies.

As Wales’ new First Minister, Eluned Morgan steps into her role with numerous challenges but also significant opportunities to shape the future of the nation. Her historic appointment marks a new chapter in Welsh politics, bringing a fresh perspective and a commitment to inclusivity and progress.

Today’s Senedd vote, required to formally appoint her as First Minister, was conducted via a roll call, with members allowed to vote remotely due to the summer break. The final tally saw Eluned Morgan securing 28 votes, with Andrew RT Davies obtaining 15 votes, and Rhun ap Iorwerth receiving 12 votes. There was one abstention out of the 56 votes cast in total. Here is a detailed breakdown of the votes:

Rhys ab Owen MS (Ind): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Mick Antoniw MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Mabon ap Gwynfor MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Rhun ap Iorwerth MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Natasha Asghar MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Hannah Blythyn MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Dawn Bowden MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Jayne Bryant MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Cefin Campbell MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Hefin David MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Alun Davies MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Andrew RT Davies MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Gareth Davies MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Paul Davies MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Jane Dodds MS (Lib Dem): Abstain
Mark Drakeford MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
James Evans MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Rebecca Evans MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Janet Finch-Saunders MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Luke Fletcher MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Peter Fox MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Heledd Fychan MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Russell George MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Vaughan Gething MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Tom Giffard MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
John Griffiths MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Lesley Griffiths MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Llyr Gruffydd MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Siân Gwenllian MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Mike Hedges MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Vikki Howells MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Altaf Hussain MS (Conservatives): Not voting
Jane Hutt MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Huw Irranca-Davies MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Mark Isherwood MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Joel James MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Julie James MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Delyth Jewell MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Elin Jones MS (Plaid Cymru): No vote as presiding officer
Laura Anne Jones MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Samuel Kurtz MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Jeremy Miles MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Darren Millar MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Eluned Morgan MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Julie Morgan MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Sarah Murphy MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Lynne Neagle MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Peredur Owen Griffiths MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Rhianon Passmore MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Adam Price MS (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth
Jenny Rathbone MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
David Rees MS (Labour): No vote as deputy presiding officer
Sam Rowlands MS (Conservatives): Andrew RT Davies
Jack Sargeant MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Ken Skates MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Carolyn Thomas MS (Labour): No vote
Lee Waters MS (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Joyce Watson (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Buffy Williams (Labour): Eluned Morgan
Sioned Williams (Plaid Cymru): Rhun ap Iorwerth

Alasdair McDiarmid, Assistant General Secretary for steelworkers’ union Community, said: “We congratulate Eluned Morgan on becoming Wales’ new First Minister, and the first woman to hold the role. This represents a significant moment for the labour movement in Wales and the UK. Eluned’s long record of public service and her strong commitment to social justice make her an ideal fit for the role.

“As the leading union representing workers at Tata Steel, we are working closely with Welsh Government to support our members at Port Talbot, Llanwern and Trostre, and all downstream sites during this uncertain and challenging time.

“Indeed, our workplace reps and officials from Port Talbot held a productive meeting with the incoming First Minister and Deputy First Minister last week. During that meeting, they were assured that the new leadership team recognises the critical importance of the steel industry to the Welsh economy and to communities across South Wales, and that the Welsh Labour Government – working with the UK Labour Government – will be doing everything in its power to stand with our steelworkers and safeguard the future of the sector. We welcome that strong commitment, and look forward to working closely with First Minister Eluned Morgan and her team to deliver for our members.”

Community is the steelworkers’ union. More steelworkers are members of Community than any other union, and the union represents the vast majority of workers impacted by Tata’s decarbonisation plans in South Wales.

Local Government

Mayor and deputy mayor appointed in Milford Haven

Published

1 hour ago

May 13, 2026

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN TOWN COUNCIL has congratulated Cllr Mark Woodward after he was inaugurated as the town’s new Mayor and First Citizen.

Cllr Woodward was formally appointed on Monday evening, with Cllr Kathy Gray confirmed as Deputy Mayor.

Following the ceremony, Cllr Woodward said it was a “true honour and privilege” to take on the role, adding that it was something he had “never in my wildest dreams imagined would happen to me.”

He thanked his fellow councillors for their trust, as well as residents who had sent messages of congratulations.

Cllr Woodward also paid tribute to his wife Eva, who now becomes Mayoress, saying her support had helped make the moment possible.

He said: “I promise I will do my absolute best and fight hard and passionately for my beloved adopted town.”

With Cllr Gray serving as Deputy Mayor, Cllr Woodward added that residents could “rest assured it will not be a quiet year.”

Local Government

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park chief to be honoured by Gorsedd Cymru

Published

1 hour ago

May 13, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PARK CHIEF RECOGNISED

PEMBROKESHIRE Coast National Park Authority Chief Executive Tegryn Jones is to be honoured by Gorsedd Cymru at this year’s National Eisteddfod.

Mr Jones has been named among those who will be admitted to the Gorsedd in recognition of their achievements and contribution to Wales, the Welsh language and local communities.

He will be admitted in the Blue robes, which are awarded to people who have given distinguished service in areas including public life, local and national activity, journalism, media, sport, science and law.

Originally from Lampeter and a fluent Welsh speaker, Mr Jones has played a prominent role in Welsh public life through a career spanning environmental, educational and community leadership.

Before joining Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, he served as Chief Executive of Keep Wales Tidy and also worked for the General Teaching Council for Wales.

He was nominated for his work in education, youth work and the environment, as well as for developing environmental initiatives at both local and national level.

In Pembrokeshire, he is also closely associated with the development of Welsh-medium education through his long-standing involvement with Ysgol Caer Elen in Haverfordwest, where he was the first Chair of Governors.

Mr Jones said: “It is a great honour to be recognised by Gorsedd Cymru, particularly in a year when the National Eisteddfod returns to Pembrokeshire for Eisteddfod y Garreg Las.

“The Welsh language belongs to all our communities, and I have been very fortunate to work with so many people who care deeply about its future, whether through education, culture, the environment or public service.

“The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is one of the jewels of Wales and provides an outstanding landscape that contributes to the environmental, social and economic goals that are essential to Wales’ future.

“I am very fortunate to lead the National Park Authority and extremely proud that this work has been recognised by the Gorsedd.”

This year’s National Eisteddfod, Eisteddfod y Garreg Las, will be held in Llantwd, North Pembrokeshire, from August 1-8, 2026.

The event will be especially significant as it marks 850 years since the first recorded Eisteddfod was held in Cardigan in 1176, just across the river from this year’s Maes.

News

New RSPCA poll shows opposition to badger culling in Wales

Published

2 hours ago

May 13, 2026

Tom Sinclair

PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR CULLING ‘NOT THERE’, CHARITY SAYS

NEW polling from RSPCA Cymru suggests there is no clear public support in Wales for badger culling as a way of tackling bovine TB.

The charity says the new Welsh Government must “listen to people’s love of wildlife” after a survey found that just over a quarter of people in Wales actively support the culling of badgers.

The polling, released today (May 13), comes as 96 Members of the Senedd prepare to take their seats in the newly-expanded Welsh Parliament, with bovine TB expected to become one of the major animal welfare and farming issues facing the next administration.

RSPCA Cymru said only 27% of those surveyed supported badger culling, while 46% were opposed. A further 28% said they did not know.

The charity is calling on Plaid Cymru, which is seeking to form a minority government following the appointment of Rhun ap Iorwerth MS as First Minister, and on MSs from all parties, to reject culling and focus instead on what it describes as a science-led, cattle-focused approach.

The survey of 1,033 adults in Wales found that 63% of respondents were uncomfortable with badger culling being carried out using lethal methods approved by government authorities.

More than two-thirds, 68%, said they were uncomfortable with public money being used to fund the culling of badgers.

The polling also suggested that the issue could affect political support. More than half of those surveyed, 52%, said they would be less likely to support a political party that backed badger culling, while only 7% said they would be more likely to do so.

RSPCA Cymru said the figures showed that badger culling was “unsupported by a clear majority” of the Welsh public.

Billie-Jade Thomas, senior public affairs manager for RSPCA Cymru, said: “How the new Welsh Government approaches bovine TB will be one of the biggest talking points concerning animals in Wales in the coming years.

“This polling should remind all newly-elected Senedd Members that the Welsh public cares about how badgers are treated, and politicians must listen to people’s love of wildlife.

“There is a clear lack of public support for badger culling in Wales, and those supporting such action could see their support wane among their constituents.”

She added: “Wildlife control and badgers were featured in several parties’ Senedd manifestos, including Plaid Cymru, Wales’ new biggest party.

“We now hope MSs from all political groups recognise that badger culling is unsupported by a clear majority of the Welsh public, and they should instead prioritise a science-led, cattle-focused approach to combatting bovine TB.”

The polling also found that almost 98% of people in Wales consider protecting Welsh wildlife to be important, with 69% saying it is very important.

Badgers were among the most popular species named in the survey, with 73% of respondents choosing them as one of the species they were most concerned about when asked to select their top three.

RSPCA Cymru said badgers remain one of Britain’s most distinctive and misunderstood wild mammals.

Ms Thomas said: “Badgers are such wonderful creatures and, like all wildlife, deserve to be treated with kindness and respect.

“A growing body of evidence suggests that the majority of bovine TB infection occurs between cattle, with scientific evidence suggesting that badger culling is not an effective way to reduce the disease in cattle.

“The new administration must always tackle bTB in a way which does not needlessly pose a threat to one of our most distinctive, well-loved yet misunderstood species of wildlife.”

RSPCA Cymru’s manifesto for the seventh Senedd, Securing A Better Future For Animal Welfare in Wales, calls for badger culling to be rejected, describing it as ineffective and inhumane.

The poll was carried out online by Savanta between April 24 and May 12, 2026. Figures were weighted to be representative of adults in Wales.