Latest news with #Senedd
ITV News
6 hours ago
- Politics
- ITV News
Two Conwy Councillors in Wales defect to Reform UK
Two more councillors in Wales have defected from their political party to join Reform UK. Cllr Thomas Montgomery and Cllr Louise Emery, both councillors in Conwy, have announced their resignation from the Conservative Party to join Reform UK. The announcement follows yesterday's news that former Conservative Member of the Senedd Laura Anne Jones had also joined Reform UK. A string of councillors in Merthyr Tydfil also announced their own defections in June. Who else has joined Reform UK in Wales? Reform remains without a leader in Wales, however a number of councillors and politicians in the country have now announced that they have joined the party. Stuart Keyte was Wales' first elected Reform UK councillor in February this year. He won the Trevethin and Penygarn seat on Labour-dominated Torfaen council. David Thomas, Jason O'Connell, and Alan Slade are also Reform UK councillors, representing the Llantarnam ward in Torfaen. In March, four councillors from Powys joined the party. Cllr Geoff Morgan, Ithon Valley Ward, Cllr Claire Jonson-Wood, Llanyre with Nantmel Ward, who were both formerly Independent councillors, joined the party. Cllr Iain McIntosh, Yscir with Honddu Isaf and Llanddew ward and Cllr Karl Lewis, Llandinam with Dolfor Ward, both formerly Conservative, also joined Reform UK. Owain Clatworthy won a seat on a second Welsh council following a by-election in May for the Pyle, Kenfig Hill and Cefn Cribwr ward in Bridgend. Cllr Thomas Montgomery, Cllr Louise Emery, and Member of the Senedd Laura Anne Jones have all announced that they have joined Reform UK this week. David Jones, former Conservative MP for Clwyd West and Welsh Secretary, also announced he had joined Reform UK earlier this month. Andrew Barry and David Hughes were both Independent councillors for Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council they before defected to Reform UK, announced in a speech by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage in Port Talbot last month. It takes the number of Reform councillors in Wales to 13. As Wales prepares for the Senedd Election next year, a recent ITV Cymru Wales poll showed a large surge in support for Reform, which took 25% of the vote share. That would make them the second-largest party in Wales, behind Plaid Cymru, at 30%. In a press release from Reform UK, Cllr Thomas Montgomery said he and Cllr Emery had "joined the tens of thousands of people across our country who realise that the big two parties have failed to deliver the change we need."He continued: "Our politics and our country are broken. We need a party with vision, passion, and policies that deliver for working people and small businesses up and down Wales and the United Kingdom."That is why we are backing Reform – to see a Government cut taxes for working people, support our high streets, deliver smart immigration policies, cut Government waste, and so much more."Whilst we are saddened to be leaving behind incredible friends and colleagues in the Welsh Conservative Party, we cannot stand by any longer. Our communities, our County, and our Country need Reform." Cllr Louise Emery said: "Today I am joining Reform UK because they have a manifesto of common-sense policies – the only way to set this country back on course and ensure local and national government work as they should: for the taxpayer."Reform UK will deliver policies such as a single funding stream for social care, a new Education Curriculum in Wales with better funding for Pupil Referral Units, a line-by-line review of council spending, incentives for work over benefits, support for entrepreneurs, scrapping net zero and energy tax subsidies, and smart – not mass – migration with proper border control."The Conservative Group on the Council are great people who work hard for their residents, and I want to thank them for all their support over the years."This is an exciting new chapter for me, to represent my residents and be part of Reform UK, a party that will deliver change at local government level, in the Senedd, and in Westminster." A spokesperson from Reform added: "Their decision to join Reform UK Wales reflects a growing movement for real change and common-sense politics across Wales."Both Councillors will continue to represent their wards in Conwy, working tirelessly for local residents and fighting for policies that deliver real results."
South Wales Argus
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Summer is a busy time for events in Newport
From cultural celebrations to family fun, our city is buzzing with events that embrace diversity, tradition, and inclusion. Something for all interests or abilities. We've already enjoyed some fantastic festivals. The Caerleon Arts Festival delivered again, bringing colour and creativity to the area, while The Big Splash returned with free entertainment and activities for all ages to enjoy. And there's plenty more to come. On August 10, the Welsh Yemeni Festival returns to Pill Harriers rugby field, celebrating rich heritage and community spirit. Then we have Pill Carnival over the Bank Holiday weekend, and fans of pop culture can get excited for Comic Con Wales at the ICC. Summer is also a time of progress and support for our communities. Our Welsh Government is working hard to deliver what you have asked for and as the school year came to a close, we marked a major milestone in the Welsh Government's commitment to children and families with the full rollout of Universal Primary Free School Meals. Since launching in 2022, more than 50 million meals have been served in primary schools across Wales. Now, every child in every primary school in Newport can count on a free school meal every day helping to ease pressure on families and ensure every child is ready to learn. Then looking ahead to a new school year, there's even more support available. The School Essentials Grant is now open for applications, offering up to £200 per child to help with the cost of uniforms, shoes, bags, and stationery. It's not just a boost for families, when you apply, your school receives extra funding too. Applications can be made through the Newport City Council website, you can also contact my office for help. For those facing financial difficulties, the Discretionary Assistance Fund has been improved with enhanced emergency payments and expanded eligibility. It's designed to help more people when they need it most. If you're unsure what you might qualify for, the Welsh Government's 'Claim What's Yours' campaign is a great place to start. As your Member of the Senedd, I'm here to help Newport West constituents with any devolved issues. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like any help or want to discuss anything. or 01633 376627. Jayne Bryant is Senedd member for Newport West
Leader Live
12 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Leader Live
Clwyd Scouts host first all area camp in nearly a decaders
The event, named Camp Clwyd, took place at Park in the Past in Hope. Scouts aged four to 24 from across North East Wales gathered for the camp, which offered a range of activities from rock climbing to broadcasting on a radio station. Kevin Field, lead volunteer for Clwyd Scouts, said: "I'm really proud to have led this camp. "It was an incredibly complicated project where the event leadership team did everything we could to deliver in the searing heat whilst keeping the young people and adults cool and safe." The camp was organised by a dedicated team of volunteers who put special safety measures in place to manage the intense heat. Jacob Jones, a member of the event delivery team, said: "Over the 18 years I've been involved in Scouts, I've made countless memories and friendships at events like this, so being able to play a part in helping the next generation experience what I was so fortunate to is an amazing feeling. "Walking round the site, hearing all the young people enjoying themselves, and talking to our amazing volunteers who trusted us enough to bring their young people along have also been real highlights. "That being said, my favourite moment has to be the silent disco. "Six hundred people, in a Roman fort all singing together... truly a goosebump moment." Camp Clwyd proved popular with both parents and participants. Christina Hailwood, whose nine-year-old son Charlie is part of 2nd Rhyl Scouts, said: "I'd like to say a huge thank you to the Scouts for making my lad's first camping trip one to remember. "He has come home full of stories and loved every minute. "He only joined two weeks before going but they made him feel so welcome and he's already looking at a bag he wants to buy for his next trip. "All the hard work has definitely paid off, I hope the leaders get some well deserved rest and are proud of all the amazing memories they have helped make this weekend." 10-year-old Jack Thomas from Flint said he enjoyed the variety of activities. He said: "My favourite activity was the Xplore base because there were so many things to do and learn. "I think it's really fun for all ages especially if you're into science." Several politicians attended the camp, including MPs and Members of the Senedd. Sam Rowlands, Senedd Member for North Wales and Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Finance, Transport and Infrastructure, said: "Scouting is a brilliant way for young people to explore the outdoors, build friendships and learn new skills. "We should do as much as possible to encourage these great opportunities for all." The camp was the first of its size in nine years, with previous events limited by a shortage of adult volunteers. Mr Field said more help is still needed. READ MORE: Police investigating 'unexpected death' of man in Wrexham He said: "If you aren't involved, why not? "Volunteer even just a little bit of your time and you make a world of difference to young people, give them life changing experiences, and help them develop skills for life." More information about volunteering or joining Scouts is available at
South Wales Argus
16 hours ago
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Claim tourism tax will damage Monmouthshire's economy
The possibility of using new powers to tax overnight stays as soon as they become available was ruled out at Monmouthshire County Council's July meeting. Councillor Sara Burch, the council's cabinet member responsible for tourism, said it would hold talks with tourism operators before considering whether to introduce a charge and said: 'We've no intention of even getting to the point of consulting on a visitor levy within this administration.' The next council elections are due to take place in 2027 while the Welsh Government has said the earliest any local authority could introduce the tax, which it calls a visitor levy, is 2027. The Senedd, in July, approved legislation that will allow Wales' 22 unitary authorities to introduce a £1.30 per visitor, per night charge on overnight stays. It will be up to individual authorities if they wish to use the powers that also include a 75 pence per person, per night charge for hostels and campsites. An exception for under 18s would only apply at hostels and campsites. If every council in Wales introduced the charge it's estimated it could raise as much as £33m a year to invest in services and infrastructure to support tourism. While councils including Cardiff and Gwynedd have shown an interest in the charge it has been ruled out by Newport council, at the beginning of this yea, and Blaenau Gwent councillors say they believe it could have a negative economic impact. Figures produced for Monmouthshire council estimated in 2023 there were 2.29 million visitors, spending 3.53m visitor days in the county, generating more than £329m for the local economy, and supporting 3,462 full time equivalent jobs. The council was asked by its Conservative opposition group to commit to ruling out introducing the charge in June 2023, but at that time the ruling Labour group said it was too soon to make a decision on legislation that had yet to pass through the Senedd. At July's full council meeting Tory leader Richard John asked if the cabinet had given further consideration to his group's proposal the council 'should rule out introducing a tourism tax in Monmouthshire?' Cllr Burch said she assumed Cllr John was 'referring to the visitor levy' – to which he replied 'I am' – and she said: 'Our position remains unchanged we've no immediate plans to introduce a visitor levy.' The Abergavenny Cantref councillor said the council is working with tourism providers on destination management plans and to 'understand the advantages and how money raised could go to improving our offer to visitors'. She also said she welcomed the legislation as it also introduces a compulsory register of visitor accommodation. The destination management plans could go the council's scrutiny committees and cabinet in the autumn and Cllr Burch said: 'From there we hope to strengthen the Monmouthshire tourism partnership and discuss how any discussions may further take place but we've no intention of even getting to the point of consulting on a visitor levy within this administration.' Cllr Burch was prompted by council leader Mary Ann Brocklesby to say there were 'no plans on consulting' during the council term when responding to Cllr John. The Mitchell Troy and Trellech councillor said the response was 'disappointing to hear' and said 'the downsides of a tourism tax are really quite evident particularly in a boarder county like Monmouthshire.' He said families wanting to holiday in the Wye Valley will have a choice between staying in Gloucestershire or 'coming to Monmouthshire where a tourism tax will add an additional £40 for a week's holiday for a family of four. It could do enormous damage and as a council we should rule it out.' Cllr Burch said she considered the downsides and possible advantages to be 'evident' and said they would benefit from further discussion.
South Wales Argus
18 hours ago
- Business
- South Wales Argus
£5m for Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal pumping station
The funding will go towards upgrading the pumping station on the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. A new Task and Finish Group will also be established to explore long-term solutions for the canal's sustainability. Peter Fox, MS for Monmouth, has been a consistent advocate for the canal, raising the issue in the Senedd and engaging with residents, businesses, and campaign groups. He said: "I agree with the Deputy First Minister there is no easy solution, but this is certainly progress. "I have been calling on the Welsh Government for months to step in and support this vital waterway, so I am very pleased to see they have listened to us. "I would like to thank Cllr Jan Butler and all the campaigners for their efforts in recent weeks in bringing this to the forefront of the Welsh Government's attention." Mr Fox recently joined campaigners on the steps of Cardiff Bay, urging government action. Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies has instructed officials to engage with Welsh Water as a priority, though he cautioned that the situation remains complex. Mr Fox said: "It is action like this that makes a difference and has allowed me to show the strength of feeling on the issue. "Whilst this stop-gap solution is welcome, the benefits for the canal will not be seen until the works are done, and a long-term solution is found. "I will continue working until both of these things are a reality." The Task and Finish Group will now begin work to identify practical and lasting solutions for the future of the canal, which faces ongoing operational and environmental challenges.
