ANDREW RT DAVIES, the leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd, faces accusations of engaging in “Islamophobic race-baiting” following comments made in an article for GB News. The Muslim Council of Wales has strongly condemned his remarks, calling them “ham-fisted attempts at dog-whistle racism.”

In the GB News article, Davies expressed concerns about children being “forced to eat halal school lunches” after a constituent claimed that non-halal meat was unavailable at her daughter’s school in Cowbridge, Vale of Glamorgan. However, the school has since clarified on social media that this claim is incorrect.

The Muslim Council of Wales responded to Davies’ article with a strongly worded statement, criticizing his comments as inflammatory and dangerous. “At a time when we need politicians to show moral leadership, Andrew RT Davies is engaging in Islamophobic race-baiting,” the Council said. “Such remarks may increase online engagement for Mr. Davies but have real consequences on our streets and in our mosques.”

The Council further emphasized the potential impact on Muslim children returning to school, many of whom already face bullying and discrimination. “Mr. Davies’ public and misleading campaign on halal meat will undoubtedly affect Muslim pupils,” they added.

Natasha Asghar, a South Wales East Senedd member and a Muslim within the Conservative group, addressed the controversy by asserting that the Conservative Party is not Islamophobic. She encouraged anyone with concerns to reach out to her or other members of the Senedd, stressing her commitment to fostering peace and community cohesion.

Andrew RT Davies’ Response

In response to the criticism, Andrew RT Davies defended his actions, stating that he had merely sought assurances from the local authority that a non-halal meat option would be available for students. “As an elected member, it is my responsibility to ask legitimate questions on behalf of my constituents,” Davies said. He dismissed attempts to link his concerns with recent public disorder as “irresponsible.”

Davies also highlighted his ongoing efforts to engage with various religious and community groups, including Sikh constituents who have specific dietary restrictions related to ritually slaughtered meat.

Leadership Stability Questioned

Amid the growing controversy, some within the Conservative Senedd group have privately expressed concerns about Davies’ leadership. One member mentioned that his recent social media posts are becoming increasingly “difficult to defend” and warned that his position could become “untenable” if this continues, potentially leading to a leadership challenge.

This follows a recent post by Davies questioning whether the Senedd should be abolished, which sparked disagreement among several senior party members. His predecessor, Paul Davies, and former group leader Lord Nick Bourne both publicly opposed the notion, stating that it has never been Conservative Party policy to abolish the Senedd.

Despite the internal unrest, it is not believed that a leadership challenge is imminent, as there is currently no clear candidate to replace Davies.