In response to the Welsh leaders face off in the TV debate last Friday, Welsh Conservative Councillor, Chris Reeks, analyses the key policies, calling for practical solutions and bipartisan cooperation to effectively tackle these pressing issues facing Wales today.
Councillor Chris Reeks
Welsh Conservative for Newport City CouncilA studio audience representing a cross-section of the voting public watched representatives of the five main parties in Wales debate three major issues identified by a YouGov survey as the top concerns for voters: cost of living, immigration, and health.
Cost of Living Crisis
The debate opened with discussions on the cost of living crisis. Vaughan Gething blamed the Conservative’s economic policies under Liz Truss, while David TC Davies pointed to broader European economic issues and the impact of the Ukraine war and Covid. Jane Dodds and Rhun ap Iorwerth highlighted the 2-child benefit cap in Wales, with Gething admitting benefits were under review. Reform UK’s Oliver Lewis criticized both major parties, blaming Margaret Thatcher and targeting Labour’s policies.
The Future of the Welsh NHS
The NHS in Wales sparked heated exchanges. Jane Dodds called the NHS broken and stressed the need for better pay for care workers. David TC Davies compared waiting lists in England and Wales, and Vaughan Gething promised £1 billion to address backlogs. Oliver Lewis proposed eliminating waiting lists within two years, while Rhun ap Iorwerth criticized Labour’s failure to heed NHS experts. The session ended with Gething under fire for not holding a Welsh Covid enquiry.
Immigration Policies
On immigration, Rhun ap Iorwerth advocated for controlled borders and humane treatment of immigrants. Jane Dodds called for safe legal routes and work rights for immigrants. Oliver Lewis urged for a reset of domestic institutions rather than scapegoating migrants. David TC Davies supported legal migration and the Rwanda plan, while Vaughan Gething pledged to employ more border staff.
Final Thought
The debate offered insights into each party’s stance on key issues. Rhun ap Iorwerth of Plaid Cymru promised accountability for a potential Labour Government. Oliver Lewis of Reform UK raised ambitious goals. David TC Davies of the Conservatives elicited strong reactions from the audience. Jane Dodds of the Liberal Democrats passionately defended her party’s plans. Throughout the evening, Labour’s Vaughan Gething faced substantial criticism from the other panellists.
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