New Welsh Conservative Leader
This week Darren Millar, Member of the Senedd (MS) for Clwyd West, was elected unopposed as the new leader of the Welsh Conservative Group in the Senedd.
New Welsh Conservative Leader
On 5 December 2024, Darren Millar, Member of the Senedd (MS) for Clwyd West, was elected unopposed as the new leader of the Welsh Conservative Group in the Senedd, succeeding Andrew RT Davies. Millar's unanimous endorsement by all 15 Conservative MSs underscores the parties wish to portray a unified front as they prepare for the 2026 Senedd elections.
Who is Darren Millar?
First elected in 2007, Millar is serving his fourth term in the Senedd. His tenure includes roles such as Chief Whip and Shadow Minister for the Constitution and North Wales. Known for his robust media presence and effective leadership, Millar has been a prominent figure in Welsh politics.
In his acceptance, Millar expressed gratitude for the support from colleagues and the public, stating:
"I am humbled by the incredible support of my colleagues in the Senedd, and the kind messages I have received from Conservative Party members and members of the public across the country."
He acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor, Andrew RT Davies, and emphasised the party's commitment to offering a compelling alternative to Labour's 25-year governance in Wales:
"Andrew RT Davies will be a difficult act to follow but I am determined to build on his legacy as we take the fight to our political opponents in the run up to the Senedd elections in 2026."
"After 25 years of Labour failure, Wales is crying out for hope and change; I look forward to setting out our plans to deliver just that in the weeks and months to come."
Bernard Gentry, Chairman of the Welsh Conservative Party, welcomed Millar's leadership, highlighting recent successes and expressing confidence in future achievements:
"In recent months we’ve been winning numerous local government by-elections across Wales and our action days have recruited hundreds of new volunteers and activists. Working together as one united party under Darren, Mims and myself I am confident that we can achieve further success at the Senedd elections in 2026 and bring to an end the quarter of a century of Labour rule."
Rural Agenda
Darren Millar has a longstanding commitment to rural affairs, particularly within his constituency of Clwyd West in North Wales. Since his election in 2007, Millar has been a vocal advocate for rural communities, addressing issues such as agricultural policy, rural education, and infrastructure development.
In his role as Shadow Minister for North Wales, Millar has consistently championed the interests of rural constituents, criticising the Welsh Government's agricultural policies, arguing that they fail to adequately support farmers and rural economies.
His advocacy extends to infrastructure, where he has campaigned for improvements to rural roads and services, recognising their importance to the vitality of rural economies.
We at CLA Cymru have offered our congratulations to the Minister and remain dedicated to collaborating with political leaders to ensure that the voices of rural businesses and communities are heard and considered in policymaking processes.
