News

Tory politician under fire for racist slur in WhatsApp chat

Published

3 months ago

August 13, 2024

A CONSERVATIVE politician representing South Wales East in the Senedd has come under heavy criticism after using a racist slur in a WhatsApp group chat.

Laura Anne Jones, a Tory Member of the Senedd (MS), used a highly offensive term in reference to Chinese people during a conversation about the Chinese-owned social media platform, TikTok. The comment, which has sparked outrage, was exposed by the news website Nation.Cymru.

Ms Jones has since issued a public apology, stating that the language she used was “unacceptable” and that she “deeply regrets” her choice of words. “I sincerely apologise for any offence this has caused,” she said.

Her fellow Conservative MS, Natasha Asghar, who also represents South Wales East, expressed her anger and embarrassment over the incident. “Language like this is unacceptable at every level,” Ms Asghar said, adding that she was “positively livid” about Ms Jones’ use of the slur.

In response to the controversy, two Conservative MSs have informed BBC Wales that they believe Ms Jones should be stripped of the party whip and removed from the Conservative group. However, the Welsh Conservative Party has declined to comment on the matter.

This incident adds to recent tensions within the Welsh Conservative Party, as Ms Jones has already faced criticism and scrutiny. In June, she was removed from her position as the party’s culture spokesperson after texts from her phone appeared to show that she had asked an employee to inflate expenses claims.

The WhatsApp exchange about TikTok, where Ms Jones remarked, “No chinky spies for me!” has caused significant backlash. It remains unclear when the message was sent.

This apology comes at a time when the leader of the Conservative group in the Senedd, Andrew RT Davies, has been accused by the Muslim Council of Wales of “Islamophobic race-baiting” following an article he wrote about halal meat in schools. Mr Davies has categorically rejected the criticism.

Plaid Cymru has also condemned the language used by Ms Jones, describing it as “vile” and “completely unacceptable.” They have called on the Conservative group in the Senedd to “reflect on their recent behaviour and understand that their actions and words have consequences.”

Ms Jones, who has represented South Wales East since July 2020, remains embroiled in controversy. She was previously the subject of a police investigation concerning allegations of impropriety surrounding expenses, leading to her removal from the shadow cabinet. Despite these issues, she remains a member of the Conservative group in Cardiff Bay.

A solicitor representing Ms Jones has stated that she is confident any allegations regarding her expenses are “entirely misconceived.”

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

12 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

12 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

12 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!