Welsh Labour’s £4bn election pledge could revive controversial new Whitland or St Clears hospital plan

The commitment was made in the party’s manifesto pledges for the forthcoming Senedd elections, launched by Welsh Labour leader Eluned Morgan in Newport.

The press release states that the new £4bn “Hospitals for the Future Fund” would, over the next 10 years, fund a “hospital development in West Wales” alongside the replacement of the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff and the redevelopment of Wrexham Maelor Hospital.

This appears to refer to Hywel Dda University Health Board’s long-standing and controversial proposal for a new Urgent and Planned Care Hospital to be built near St Clears or Whitland in Carmarthenshire.

Those plans would see key services, including accident and emergency, removed from Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen and Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest, which would be downgraded to community hospitals.

Campaigners and local politicians have repeatedly raised concerns about the impact on residents in areas like Llanelli and Ammanford, who would face significantly longer journeys for emergency treatment.

Last year, Swansea Bay News reported that the new-build plan had been pushed back by at least a decade, with Hywel Dda’s chief executive saying he was making a “strong case” to the Welsh Government for immediate investment in existing sites instead.

The inclusion of a “hospital development in West Wales” in Welsh Labour’s flagship election pledge suggests the new-build plan is now firmly back on the agenda if the party wins the election.

In her speech, Eluned Morgan said: “The NHS is not just a service. It’s a promise. And we need to renew that promise. Not with slogans, but with the biggest investment programme in our history. So, we are committing £4 billion to build the Hospitals of the Future.”

She added: “Patients deserve hospitals fit for modern medicine, not more make-do and mend. Staff deserve a working environment that matches their skill and dedication. And Wales deserves an NHS built for the future, not held together by goodwill alone.”

The health board has previously argued that a new, purpose-built hospital would allow it to meet modern healthcare standards, attract staff, and provide more specialist services than are currently available across its existing sites.

Welsh Labour was contacted for clarification on whether the pledge refers specifically to the Hywel Dda new-build proposal.

Max Boyce and local heroes celebrated at St David Awards

Welsh legend Max Boyce MBE and Wales’ most-capped footballer Jess Fishlock MBE were celebrated at the 2026 St David Awards, sharing the spotlight with a remarkable group of winners from communities across South West Wales.

Now in its 13th year, the awards celebrate the extraordinary achievements of people from all walks of life.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “It has been a privilege to honour all of this year’s winners who make me even more proud to be Welsh. They are an inspiration to us all.”

Here are the winners from the Swansea Bay region and beyond:

Young Person Award: Cian Evans

Cian Evans from Pontardawe received the Young Person Award for his incredible fundraising efforts in the face of unimaginable tragedy. After surviving a devastating car crash that killed his mother and unborn sister, Cian has raised thousands of pounds for the Wales Air Ambulance, which helped save his life. His resilience and determination have been described as an inspiration.

Bravery Award: The Teachers of Ysgol Dyffryn Aman

Liz Hopkin, Fiona Elias, and Darrel Campbell were jointly awarded the Bravery award for their heroic actions during the terrifying knife attack at the Carmarthenshire school in April 2024. The three staff members put themselves in harm’s way to protect pupils, with Liz Hopkin sustaining multiple stab wounds while continuing to act decisively.

Community Champion Award: Faith in Families

Swansea-based charity Faith in Families won the Community Champion award. The judges recognised their incredible work supporting some of the city’s most deprived neighbourhoods through their Community Cwtches and the launch of Cwtch Mawr, Wales’ first Multibank, which has distributed over a million essential items to families in need.

Innovation, Science and Technology Award: Professor Joanne Davies

Professor Joanne Davies, Head of Simulation at Swansea University, won the Innovation, Science and Technology award. Her work in transforming medical training in Wales through cutting-edge simulation was praised for improving patient safety and preparing clinicians for real-world pressures.

Public Service Award: Dr Tipswalo Day

Dr Tipswalo Day, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Glangwili General Hospital in Carmarthen, was awarded the Public Service award for her pioneering work to reduce stillbirths and birth-related brain injuries. She also founded Race Matters in Maternity, Wales’ first conference tackling inequalities in maternal care.

Other Winners

• Culture Award: Max Boyce MBE
• Sport Award: Jess Fishlock MBE
• Business Award: de Novo Solutions
• Environment Champion Award: Deorfa Cynrig Hatchery
• Volunteering Award: Brian Jones
• First Minister’s Special Award: Henry Engelhardt CBE and Diane Briere de l’Isle Engelhardt OBE

Welsh Government demands urgent UK action as Port Talbot steel transition faces trade threat

The First Minister revealed she pressed the Prime Minister on the issue during a meeting last week, describing the need for UK Government action as “urgent” as the sector faces challenges including high energy costs, global overcapacity and growing trade barriers.

In a written statement published yesterday, Ms Morgan said the Welsh Government is calling for the UK Steel Strategy to be published “as a matter of utmost urgency” to provide clarity and confidence for workers and industry.

The intervention comes as Tata Steel UK’s transition to electric arc furnace steelmaking is firmly underway at Port Talbot, with the new 3.2 million tonne per annum facility due to be commissioned in late 2027 or early 2028.

Ms Morgan said EU trade measures have the potential to have “drastic consequences” for the Welsh steel sector at a time when it is already under immense trading pressure due to US tariffs and global overcapacity.

“The EU is our closest and strongest trading partner on steel, and we have been very clear with the UK Government that we urgently need to see it make a strong case for the EU to preserve our existing arrangements, especially at a time when our sector is transitioning to net zero,” the First Minister said.

The Welsh Government has also pressed the critical need for the UK to have robust steel measures to replace the UK steel safeguards, which are due to expire in June 2026.

“We have been clear that Wales and the UK cannot be left in a situation where all our major partners are implementing solutions to protect their steel sector, only to leave us open to potential dumping,” Ms Morgan said.

She said Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans heard firsthand from steel unions last week about their concerns for the sector.

The Welsh Government said robust steel measures are vital to the preservation of the steel industry in Wales and the UK, especially when considering the global overcapacity of steel and increased steel tariffs driven primarily by US tariffs on the sector.

Despite the challenges, the US continues to be an important market for Welsh steel, according to the Welsh Government, which said it continues to work with the UK Government to find a solution with the US that supports the steel sector.

The Welsh Government said it understands that the recent US Supreme Court ruling has no bearing on steel and therefore the UK Government needs to agree and implement the tariff-free quota for UK steel into the US as agreed under the UK-US economic prosperity deal, whilst considering the unique transitioning needs of the Welsh steel sector.

More broadly, the Welsh Government said the sector wants to see a truly competitive electricity pricing structure, greater leverage for using UK steel through public procurement, robust trade remedies and protection against carbon leakage.

Ms Morgan said the proposed UK Government Steel Strategy is an important piece of work investigating the policy issues the domestic steel sector continues to face, as well as researching the best opportunities for capital investment.

“The Welsh Government is calling for the strategy to be afforded the absolute top priority that it deserves, and that publication is made as a matter of utmost urgency,” she said.

“Industry needs clarity, and our steel workforce needs transparency and confidence.”

The Welsh Government said it understands the UK Steel Strategy is now due to be published in March.

Tim Rutter, Director of Communications and Public Affairs at Tata Steel UK, welcomed the First Minister’s statement.

“It’s encouraging to see the Welsh Government continuing to champion the needs of the steel sector at such a critical time,” Mr Rutter said.

“Their call for urgent clarity on trade measures and the UK Steel Strategy echoes what our workforce and communities need – stability, certainty and a policy framework that supports a sustainable future for steelmaking in Wales.

“We look forward to continued constructive engagement as the sector navigates this period of transition.”

Tata Steel ceased ironmaking at its Port Talbot site in October 2024 and temporarily paused steelmaking pending the construction of the electric arc furnace. During that period, the business is importing slab and hot rolled coil to support manufacturing and distribution operations at sites across Wales, England and Northern Ireland.

The company has been undergoing a restructuring that will reduce the size of its workforce to around 5,000 direct employees, who it says will supply high-quality steel products to demanding markets including construction and infrastructure, automotive, packaging and engineering.

Tata Steel UK says its ambition is to produce net-zero steel by 2045 at the latest, and to have reduced 30 per cent of its CO2 emissions by 2030.

Crowds flock for first look at dramatic Civic Centre makeover plans

Residents packed into the Y Storfa community hub last week as Swansea Council and regeneration firm Urban Splash unveiled early ideas for one of the most high‑profile redevelopment sites in Wales.

The proposals — still at an early stage — include new cafés and bars overlooking the bay, beach‑sports shops, apartments, workspaces, a dedicated events venue, and even a brand‑new aquarium on the waterfront.

It’s the boldest vision yet for the huge seafront plot, which the council says could become a “once‑in‑a‑generation” destination for locals and visitors.

First Minister drops in for a look

Among those getting an early peek was First Minister Eluned Morgan, who visited Y Storfa during the two‑day exhibition. The hub itself is part‑funded by the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme.

For anyone who missed the event, the full proposals — along with a feedback form — are now available online, with more public engagement promised in the months ahead.

“Shaping something special for Swansea”

Urban Splash, the award‑winning regeneration specialists appointed to deliver the 20‑year partnership across seven Swansea sites, said the turnout showed just how much appetite there is for change.

Development director David Warburton said the response had been “fantastic”.

“We’re at the very start of shaping something special for the Civic Centre site,” he said. “Local insight is invaluable, and there’ll be plenty more opportunities for people to have their say.”

Council: “People care deeply about this site”

Council leader Cllr Rob Stewart said the early reaction proved how important the location is to Swansea residents.

“This is a landmark site and people care deeply about its future,” he said. “Working with Urban Splash gives us a once‑in‑a‑generation chance to reimagine the Civic Centre as a vibrant destination for residents, businesses and visitors.”

He added that the council is committed to keeping local people “at the heart of the project”.

Part of a wider city shake‑up

The Civic Centre revamp is just one of several major schemes being brought forward under the Urban Splash partnership.

Last autumn, the company revealed plans for a seven‑acre riverside neighbourhood in St Thomas, including more than 150 homes — half of them affordable — a landmark six‑storey building, shared gardens, improved river walkways and new space for shops, cafés and leisure.

The Civic Centre proposals are expected to evolve over the coming months as more public feedback is gathered.

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Wales’ bus overhaul becomes law as Swansea region first in line for 2027 shake‑up

Wales’ new Bus Services Act has now received Royal Assent, giving ministers sweeping powers to take back control of local bus networks after years of cuts, collapsing operators and shrinking timetables. The Welsh Government says the change marks the start of a complete rebuild of how buses operate across the country — and Southwest Wales will be the first to feel it.

The law was formally sealed in Cardiff by First Minister Eluned Morgan, who said the move sends a clear signal that the days of unreliable, patchwork bus services are numbered.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said:

“This is a historic day for public transport in Wales – it sends out a clear message that we are committed to improving the bus system and delivering better, more reliable services for the people of Wales.”

Swansea region becomes the testing ground

The first rollout in 2027 will cover Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire — an area that has seen repeated route cuts, operator collapses and emergency funding packages just to keep buses on the road.

Under the new system, the public sector will take charge of designing the entire network. Instead of operators deciding which routes they want to run, Transport for Wales will set the timetables, fares and connections, and companies will bid for contracts to operate them.

It’s a complete reversal of the deregulated model that has shaped Welsh buses since the 1980s — and one the Welsh Government argues is essential to stop communities being “cut off”.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates, said:

“Today marks a major milestone for bus services in Wales. It’s the beginning of a new era… These changes won’t be seen overnight, it’s going to take time, but we are working closely with the industry and local authorities to plan and deliver bus services to meet the needs of passengers today and for generations to come.”

What franchising actually means for passengers

For decades, bus companies have been free to pick and choose the routes they run. If a service wasn’t profitable, it disappeared — leaving councils scrambling to plug the gaps with dwindling budgets.

Franchising flips that on its head.

Instead of operators calling the shots, Transport for Wales will design a single, joined‑up network, deciding where buses go, how often they run and how they connect with trains. Operators will then compete for contracts to run those routes — similar to the system used in London.

The Welsh Government says this will mean clearer timetables, simpler routes and a network that actually works together, rather than a patchwork of competing companies.

For passengers, the promise is straightforward: more reliable buses, better connections and a system designed around public need, not commercial priorities.

Why the change was needed

The bus network in Wales has been in crisis for years. Operators have folded, routes have vanished and councils have repeatedly warned that entire communities risk losing their only public transport link.

Swansea Bay News has reported extensively on the turmoil — from emergency funding packages to operators collapsing and councils warning that cuts could leave people stranded.

The Welsh Government says the new law is the only way to rebuild a stable, reliable network that doesn’t fall apart every time a company pulls out or a subsidy ends.

A Welsh Government spokesperson said:

“We will use local knowledge to design and plan services that put the voice of the passenger at the heart of their local bus network.”

What happens next

Transport for Wales will now work with councils, unions, operators and the public to design the new franchised network for Southwest Wales ahead of the 2027 launch.

Early proposals published last year showed plans for simpler routes, better interchange points and more direct links between key towns, hospitals and employment sites.

The Welsh Government insists the direction of travel is now set — and that the Swansea region will lead the way in proving whether franchising can finally fix Wales’ broken bus system.

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New figures reveal Wales set to lose £6bn in rail funding row

Billions lost, investment bypasses rural Wales

Wales is set to miss out on another £1.3–£1.6 billion in transport funding after the UK Labour Government confirmed Northern Powerhouse Rail will go ahead as an “England and Wales” project.

The scheme, designed to link Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds, will not include a single centimetre of track in Wales. By classifying it as “England and Wales”, the Treasury avoids triggering Barnett consequentials that would have delivered funding for Welsh rail.

It follows similar decisions on HS2, the high‑speed line between London, Birmingham and Manchester, and East‑West Rail, which links Oxford and Cambridge. Together, those projects have already cost Wales up to £4.3 billion in lost investment. Combined, campaigners say Wales could now be short by around £6 billion.

Scotland and Northern Ireland cash in

While Wales is left empty‑handed, Scotland is set to receive £2.7 billion and Northern Ireland just under £1 billion as a result of Northern Powerhouse Rail.

A Treasury spokesperson said:

“Wales will benefit from £445 million of rail investment over the next decade — the biggest ever funding boost for Welsh rail.”

Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens has also defended the classification of projects like HS2 and Northern Powerhouse Rail as “England and Wales” schemes, arguing that Wales benefits indirectly from improved connections across the UK rail network.

Welsh Government stresses cooperation

First Minister Eluned Morgan said:

“We will continue to press for further commitments, including electrification of the North and South Mainlines, which remain vital for Wales’s future.”

She added that the settlement would deliver “significant extra investment in rail infrastructure” and emphasised the need for cooperation between governments.

Opposition parties cry foul

Plaid Cymru Westminster leader Liz Saville Roberts MP said:

“Wales is owed billions from HS2 and now Northern Powerhouse Rail. Labour has failed to address chronic underfunding of our railways, and our communities are paying the price.”

Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth also accused Labour of leaving Wales “short‑changed again” and said the First Minister had “no influence” over her Westminster colleagues.

Lib Dems demand devolved powers

Welsh Liberal Democrat Westminster spokesperson David Chadwick MP said:

“This Labour Government is deliberately depriving Welsh communities of billions of pounds in transport funding, whilst expecting a pat on the back for delivering crumbs.

Labour has the power to change the system and stop these funding scandals, but has made its position clear — they are happy for Wales to be left behind, paying for megaprojects in England whilst our own rail and transport infrastructure collapses.”

Mid and West Wales left behind

Local campaigners say the funding gap is most keenly felt in Mid and West Wales, where rail services remain patchy and major projects have stalled.

Carl Peters‑Bond, independent candidate for the new Caerfyrddin constituency in next year’s Senedd elections, said:

“We’re told Wales is getting investment, but Mid and West Wales see none of it. Communities from Carmarthen to Aberystwyth are crying out for rail connectivity, yet billions are being spent on lines hundreds of miles away. It’s a betrayal of rural Wales.

Both Westminster and Cardiff need to stop playing politics and start building the infrastructure our communities desperately need. People here don’t want excuses — they want action.”

West Wales line campaign highlights the gap

The row comes just days after campaigners renewed calls for funding to restore the Carmarthen to Aberystwyth rail line, axed in the 1960s.

As Swansea Bay News reported at the weekend, supporters say reopening the line would transform connectivity across West Wales, boost the economy, and cut car dependency. Campaigners argue that the billions Wales is missing out on could easily fund projects like the Carmarthen–Aberystwyth line, yet instead the money is being spent on rail schemes in England.

Creaking infrastructure, growing anger

With rail electrification stalled and public transport under strain, campaigners warn the funding gap leaves Wales at risk of falling further behind.

The row adds to growing pressure on Labour to explain why Wales is repeatedly excluded from consequential funding, while neighbouring nations benefit.

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#CarlPetersBond #CarmarthenToAberystwythRailLink #DavidChadwickMP #EastWestRail #ElunedMorganMS #HS2 #HS3 #LizSavilleRobertsMP #NorthernPowerhouseRail #PlaidCymru #politics #railInvestment #RhunApIorwerthMS #UKLabour #WelshLabour #WelshLiberalDemocrats

‘One in four Swansea kids in poverty’ – new plan promises biggest cut in decades

Local families count the cost

The Prime Minister launched the plan in South Wales alongside the First Minister, promising measures to boost family incomes and cut essential costs. Ministers say 550,000 children across the UK will be lifted out of poverty by 2030, including 69,000 in Wales.

In Swansea West alone, almost 3,000 children are expected to benefit from the removal of the two‑child cap. Official figures show more than a quarter of children in the constituency are currently living in poverty.

Torsten Bell, MP for Swansea West, said:

“One in four children in Swansea West are now living in poverty, blighting their childhoods and limiting their potential. The Conservatives claimed the two‑child limit was to punish irresponsible parents, but all it actually did was punish children. I’m proud to be part of a government that is tackling child poverty, boosting wages and cutting energy bills for all of us.”

Leaders welcome change, charities urge caution

Council leaders say they have long called for the cap to be scrapped.

Rob Stewart, Leader of Swansea Council, said:

“We’ve seen first‑hand the impact the Tory two‑child benefit cap has had on children living in Swansea. For many years now, the Labour‑run council in Swansea has been calling for UK Governments to scrap the cap and I’m really pleased to see this Labour Government has listened. This will make a huge difference to Swansea families, lifting children out of poverty and giving them the best possible start in life.”

Charities working with families in Swansea say the announcement is welcome but stress that poverty levels remain at historic highs.

Cherrie Bija, CEO of Faith in Families, said:

“We see every day how poverty leaves children cold, hungry and carrying worries no child should bear. Lifting the two‑child cap will give families in Wales some breathing space and real hope. If we want Wales to be a great place to grow up, we must all stand beside every child and advocate for them. This is only the beginning.”

Faith in Families also runs the Swansea Multibank, which has been described as a “major step forward in the fight against poverty in South Wales”. The project redistributes surplus goods from businesses to families in need, providing essentials from cleaning products to furniture.

In earlier coverage, Cherrie Bija said:

“The Multibank is about dignity as well as support. Families shouldn’t have to choose between heating their homes and buying the basics. By working with partners we’re making sure children don’t go without.”

Wider measures

The UK Government says the wider strategy will also deliver £150 off energy bills through the Warm Home Discount, pay rises for up to 160,000 of Wales’s lowest earners via increases to the National Living Wage, and above‑inflation rises to the Universal Credit Standard Allowance. Ministers argue these measures will tackle the root causes of poverty by cutting costs and boosting incomes.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the plan as a “moral mission” to ensure every child has the best possible start in life.

Keir Starmer said:

“Every child deserves the best possible start in life, with their future no longer determined by the circumstances of their birth. Yet too many children are growing up in poverty, held back from getting on in life, and too many families are struggling without the basics: a secure home, warm meals, and the support they need to make ends meet.”

First Minister Eluned Morgan said Welsh Government policies such as free school meals and childcare expansion would complement the UK‑wide measures.

Eluned Morgan said:

“While the Welsh Government is using every tool available to us in Wales, it’s vital our two governments work together to make real, lasting change. That’s why our two Governments are working together to do all we can to create opportunities for every community.”

The Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, added:

“Tackling child poverty is not just the right thing to do, it’s an investment in Wales’s future. There is a direct link between child poverty and poor educational outcomes and future unemployment – we cannot afford to waste a generation’s potential.”

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First Minister Eluned Morgan tops Labour’s Senedd candidate list for Ceredigion Penfro

Under Labour’s rules, incumbent Members of the Senedd are automatically placed at the top of their constituency lists. Morgan has represented Mid and West Wales on the regional list since 2016 and became First Minister in 2024, having previously served as Health Minister and International Relations Minister.

Just two of Labour’s candidates on the Ceredigion Penfro list have direct links to the area. Marc Tierney, Morgan’s current office manager, is a county councillor for Narberth Urban and Cabinet Member for Young People, Communities and the Wellbeing of Future Generations. Joshua Phillips, a local activist, chairs Welsh Labour’s Solva & St Davids Branch, is vice chair of Solva Community Council, and is founder of the Edge Festival as well as director of Solva Gin.

Other names on the list include Margaret Greenaway, Swansea‑based President of The Open University Students’ Association; Tansaim Hussain‑Gul, a Cardiff‑born British Gas worker and trade union activist; Luke Davies‑Jones, a chartered accountant and Unite union member born in Swansea and now living in Cardiff; and Peter Huw Jenkins, a county councillor for Llandaff on Cardiff City Council.

Labour’s candidate list for Ceredigion Penfro

Eluned Morgan
First Minister of Wales and incumbent MS, automatically placed at the top of Labour’s slate.

Marc Tierney
County councillor for Narberth Urban, Cabinet Member for Young People, Communities and Wellbeing of Future Generations, and Morgan’s current office manager.

Joshua Phillips
Local activist, chair of Welsh Labour’s Solva & St Davids Branch, vice chair of Solva Community Council, founder of the Edge Festival and director of Solva Gin.

Margaret Greenaway
Swansea-based President of The Open University Students’ Association (OUSA).

Tansaim Hussain-Gul
Cardiff-born British Gas worker and trade union activist.

Luke Davies-Jones
Chartered accountant and Unite union member, born in Swansea and living in Cardiff.

Peter Huw Jenkins
County councillor for Llandaff on Cardiff City Council.

New constituency and projections

Ceredigion Penfro is one of the new multi‑member constituencies created under Senedd reforms, combining parts of Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. Each of the new constituencies will elect six Members of the Senedd using proportional representation, replacing the old mix of constituency and regional seats.

Polling averages suggest Labour could secure around two seats in Ceredigion Penfro, with Plaid Cymru expected to perform strongly in the area and Reform UK also polling competitively. That would give Labour a foothold in a constituency where Plaid has historically dominated, but where Pembrokeshire’s Labour vote could now play a bigger role under the new boundaries.

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WestJet to launch direct Cardiff–Toronto flights in 2026

According to Cardiff Airport, the new service will operate four times a week from 23 May 2026, offering passengers from Wales, the South West of England, and the Midlands a new transatlantic option. The route is expected to provide onward connections via Toronto Pearson International Airport to destinations across WestJet’s North American network, including Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal.

WestJet has selected Cardiff as its exclusive UK airport for 2026. Cardiff Airport says the move reflects growing demand for international travel from the region and supports its post-pandemic recovery, with passenger numbers reportedly approaching one million per year.

The last direct air link between Cardiff and Canada was operated by Zoom Airlines, which offered seasonal flights to Toronto before ceasing operations in 2008. Since then, travellers between Wales and Canada have relied on connecting services via London or other European hubs. Cardiff Airport is positioning the new WestJet route as a revival of that long-lost connection, with hopes of long-term sustainability and broader North American access.

Jon Bridge, Chief Executive Officer of Cardiff Airport, said:

“We’re incredibly proud that WestJet has chosen Cardiff Airport as a new UK destination for summer 2026. This new Toronto route marks an exciting milestone in our growth and a major step forward in reconnecting Wales with North America. It will strengthen tourism, create new opportunities for trade and investment, and showcase Wales on the global stage.”

WestJet’s Senior Airport Affairs Manager, Chris White-DeVries, said:

“We’re thrilled to bring WestJet’s friendly, affordable and reliable service to Wales for the first time. Cardiff is a vibrant capital with a proud and rich history, and we see huge potential in connecting it directly with Toronto, a key gateway to North America.

“This route will make it easier than ever for Canadian travellers to discover Wales’ stunning coastlines and culture, while giving guests across Wales and western England seamless access to Eastern Canada and beyond.”

The announcement comes ahead of Canada’s co-hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2026 and is being positioned by Cardiff Airport as a boost to tourism, business, and cultural exchange.

Welsh Government representatives also welcomed the move. First Minister Eluned Morgan MS said:

“This is welcome news for passengers, businesses and our tourism industries, both in Wales and Canada. With good connections to other Canadian cities, the new Toronto route will open up new economic opportunities for Wales in North America.

“We have around 35 Canadian companies in Wales, employing around 6,500 people, while Canada is an export market worth over £300m a year. Ahead of our Wales Investment Summit on 1st December, this is a positive example of how we are opening up international opportunities for people and businesses in Wales.”

WestJet’s Cardiff–Toronto service is scheduled to begin on 23 May 2026.

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Tories dangle Senedd budget talks with Labour – with a big tax‑cut catch

The move, announced in a letter from opposition leader Darren Millar MS, comes as Labour faces a tight Senedd arithmetic and the looming Caerphilly by‑election, but is widely seen as unlikely to lead to a deal.

Conservatives say they are “responsible opposition”

In his letter, Millar said the Conservatives could not support a “business as usual” budget that simply rose with inflation, but suggested an agreement “may be possible” if the Welsh Government considered some of their priorities.

Chief among those is the scrapping of Welsh Stamp Duty (Land Transaction Tax) for all primary residential properties. Millar argued this would help first‑time buyers onto the housing ladder, improve mobility in the market and boost the economy.

He said:

“While the Welsh Conservatives fundamentally disagree with the Welsh Labour Government on many things, we are a responsible opposition that will always strive to put the people of Wales first.”

A tax power at the heart of the row

The focus on Land Transaction Tax is significant. It is one of the few tax‑raising powers devolved to the Welsh Government, alongside income tax variation and landfill disposals. That makes it a symbolic battleground: Conservatives want to use it to cut the cost of buying homes, while Labour has historically defended it as a tool to raise revenue for public services.

By putting Stamp Duty abolition at the centre of their offer, the Conservatives are effectively using the budget talks to promote a flagship policy that Labour is highly unlikely to accept.

Political arithmetic and the Caerphilly by‑election

The Welsh Government does not hold a majority in the Senedd, meaning it must secure support from at least one other party to pass its spending plans. That task has become even more precarious following the death of Labour MS Hefin David in August, which triggered a by‑election in Caerphilly later this month.

While Labour has held the seat since the Senedd was established, both Plaid Cymru and Reform UK are mounting strong challenges. If Labour were to lose, the balance of power in Cardiff Bay would tilt further away from the government, making deals with opposition parties even more essential.

Most observers believe Labour is far more likely to seek support from Plaid Cymru or the Welsh Liberal Democrats — both of whom have previously struck budget agreements — than to enter into talks with the Conservatives.

More PR than negotiation?

That context makes Millar’s letter look less like the start of genuine negotiations and more like a political manoeuvre. By offering talks on the budget, the Conservatives can present themselves as constructive while simultaneously pushing their tax‑cutting agenda into the headlines.

Whether or not the First Minister responds, the Conservatives have already succeeded in framing Stamp Duty abolition as part of the budget debate — even if the chances of Labour taking them up on the offer remain slim.

#Budget #DarrenMillarMS #ElunedMorganMS #landTransactionTax #stampDuty #taxCut #WelshConservatives #WelshGovernment #WelshLabour

Row over £38m cut to Welsh funding under new Local Growth scheme

First Minister admits settlement is “slightly smaller”

The Welsh Government confirmed it will launch a consultation later this month to decide how the money is spent. Ministers in Cardiff say the fund will be used to support skills, help businesses in key sectors such as health and AI, and tackle barriers to growth.

First Minister Eluned Morgan said the settlement represented around 22% of the UK‑wide fund and pledged it would “reach all parts of Wales”. She admitted, however, that the package was “slightly smaller” than the previous scheme, adding: “Let’s remember, we always knew there was a price to pay for Brexit.”

UK Government Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said decisions about spending were “best made by people in Wales” and stressed that ministers in London were working with Cardiff to deliver growth and opportunity.

Kurtz: “Wales was promised more, not less”

Welsh Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Energy, Samuel Kurtz MS, said the change represented a broken promise to Wales.

“Under Labour, Wales was promised more funding, not tens of millions of pounds less,” he said.

“The Welsh Labour Government getting to hold the purse strings does not fill me with hope, as they routinely waste taxpayers’ money on vanity projects like the creation of more politicians or on non‑devolved areas like their pointless overseas embassies and Ugandan tree planting.

“This funding should be used to support struggling Welsh businesses who have had to contend with Labour Governments at both ends of the M4 hitting them with higher taxes.”

Plaid Cymru and Reform also weigh in

Plaid Cymru’s economy spokesperson Luke Fletcher MS said the new fund only “notionally” replaced the EU structural funds Wales lost after Brexit, warning that £500m over three years “falls far short of what’s required to tackle decades of underinvestment and deep‑rooted deprivation.”

A Reform UK Wales spokesperson also criticised the settlement, claiming Labour and Plaid Cymru were responsible for the poor state of the Welsh economy.

From EU billions to a smaller UK pot

Large parts of Wales qualified for EU structural funds during Britain’s membership, receiving around £375m a year. That support was replaced by the Shared Prosperity Fund, worth £585m over three years, but structured without direct Welsh Government control.

The new Local Growth Fund replaces that scheme, with a framework now agreed between the Labour UK Government and ministers in Cardiff. The £547m allocation will be split between capital spending on infrastructure and revenue for services, though the exact balance has not yet been confirmed.

The announcement comes ahead of the Welsh Government’s draft budget, due to be published on Tuesday. Ministers will need to secure support from another party in the Senedd to pass it early next year.

Related coverage

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• ‘Transformational for our communities’: MPs react to £214m Pride in Place funding
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Llanelli workers face pre-Christmas earnings hit after Jaguar Land Rover cyber attack

Hundreds of workers in Llanelli are facing a loss of income in the run-up to Christmas after a cyber attack on Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) disrupted supply chains and halted production across the UK.

Agency staff laid off as overtime dries up

The impact has been felt acutely at Marelli and Gestamp, two major automotive suppliers in Llanelli with a combined workforce of 360. Agency workers have already been laid off, while permanent staff have been told to stay home and “work back” hours — effectively cancelling overtime many rely on for festive spending.

Local Labour MS Lee Waters raised the issue in the Senedd this week, warning that the cyber attack had left Welsh workers “in limbo” and calling for urgent clarity on when UK Government support will reach affected sites.

Welsh Government in daily contact with suppliers

First Minister Eluned Morgan said Welsh Government teams were in daily contact with around 30 suppliers across Wales, and that support services including React and Working Wales were on standby to assist affected workers.

“The JLR cyber attack has hit Welsh suppliers and the people who work in those companies hard,” she said. “We welcome the £1.5bn UK loan guarantee, but Welsh workers need to know when the money will land.”

She confirmed that both Marelli and Gestamp were being actively monitored, and that Economy Secretary Rebecca Evans had written to UK ministers seeking urgent updates.

Tata under pressure over lack of cyber insurance

Mr Waters criticised JLR’s parent company Tata for failing to have cyber insurance in place, despite previous high-profile attacks on UK retailers. He urged the Welsh Government to press Tata directly for support for downstream suppliers in Wales.

Llanelli Labour councillor Shaun Greaney added:

“Why is it the poor workers who always pay the price for ineptitude at a higher level? They should be compensated by JLR’s owners Tata.”

JLR introduces supplier support scheme

In response, JLR said it had launched a short-term financing scheme to help suppliers with cashflow, including faster payments and reimbursement of financing costs. A dedicated help desk and manual payment system have also been introduced, with automated systems now being restored.

The company said the scheme would initially support critical suppliers needed to restart production, before expanding to include non-production partners.

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Digital ID plans spark political row in Wales

UK Government sets out plan for smartphone IDs

The UK Government confirmed last week that a digital ID scheme will be rolled out before the next general election, due by 2029. Under the plans, every adult working in the UK will be required to hold a digital ID card stored on their smartphone.

The IDs will include details such as name, residency status, date of birth, nationality and a photo. Ministers argue the system will make it harder for people without legal status to work, while also simplifying everyday checks for services such as driving licences, childcare and welfare.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said the scheme would “make our borders more secure.”

🖥️ What is a digital ID?

Digital ID card
Stored on smartphones, showing name, residency status, date of birth, nationality and a photo.

Purpose
Used for Right to Work checks and access to services like driving licences and childcare.

Rollout
UK Government says it will be introduced before the next general election, due by 2029.

Concerns
Critics warn of costs, civil liberties risks, and digital exclusion for those without smartphones.

First Minister backs rollout and demands Welsh flag on IDs

In Wales, First Minister Eluned Morgan has given her backing to the policy, telling BBC Wales she wants the Welsh flag to appear on IDs issued here.

“That is something that I’m definitely going to be pushing with the UK government,” she said.

Morgan added that she is pressing for additional funding to ensure the rollout does not disadvantage Wales.

Opposition brands digital ID a ‘red line’ for civil liberties

The proposals have been met with fierce criticism from opposition benches.

David Chadwick MP, who represents Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe for the Welsh Liberal Democrats, described the idea of a mandatory digital ID as “crossing a red line.” He warned it risked undermining long‑standing civil liberties while doing little to fix problems in the immigration system.

Chadwick argued that the billions earmarked for the scheme would be better spent on clearing the asylum backlog through properly resourced processing centres, or on improving the NHS.

Welsh Conservatives have also voiced strong opposition. In the Senedd, Darren Millar MS challenged the First Minister to justify her support, claiming the scheme would cost Wales up to £1 billion in lost funding.

“Labour’s plans for digital IDs will not stop illegal migration and will come at an unacceptable cost to taxpayers,” he said.

Poll shows Wales more opposed than rest of UK

The debate comes against a backdrop of divided public opinion. A YouGov poll published on 26 September found 42% of people across Britain supported the introduction of digital ID cards, while 45% opposed them.

In Wales, opposition was stronger, with 35% of respondents saying they were “strongly opposed” compared to just 13% who strongly supported the idea.

Rollout due before 2029 with consultation promised

The UK Government insists the scheme will be free to download, with alternatives for those without smartphones, and says a public consultation later this year will help shape the design.

For now, though, the announcement has opened up a new political fault line in Wales, with the First Minister pressing for a Welsh‑branded rollout while her opponents warn of costs, risks and a loss of civil liberties.

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#CivilLiberties #DavidChadwickMP #DigitalID #ElunedMorganMS #FirstMinister #IDCard #KierStarmer #polling #PrimeMinister #UKGovernment #WelshConservatives #WelshFlag #WelshLabour #WelshLiberalDemocrats #YouGov

“Shameful” answer from First Minister on replacement for demolished Swansea Valley school

School closed over landslide risk

Godre’r Graig Primary was shut in July 2019 after a geotechnical report identified a medium risk of landslide from a quarry spoil tip above the playground. Pupils were moved into portable classrooms near Cwmtawe Community School in Pontardawe, more than three miles away. The original building has since been demolished.

Neath Port Talbot Council has submitted an application to Welsh Government for funding to build a replacement school. But uncertainty over the bid, and how it is being assessed, has raised concerns among staff and parents about the school’s long‑term future.

Clash in the Senedd

Raising the issue in the Senedd on Tuesday (30 September), South Wales West MS Sioned Williams said correspondence seen by the school suggested the application was being treated as if it were for a brand‑new school, rather than a replacement forced by “the scars of our industrial legacy.”

In response, the First Minister said:

“Well, my understanding is that the Plaid council blocked the new school proposal, and that is something that you may want to reflect on.”

The remark referred to the previous Labour administration’s controversial “super school” plan, which would have merged Godre’r Graig with Alltwen and Llangiwg primaries on a new site at Parc Ynysderw, Pontardawe. That proposal was overturned by the council’s new rainbow coalition in 2022 following strong community opposition.

“Children deserved a better response”

Speaking afterwards, Ms Williams said:

“The children, staff and community of Godre’rgraig deserved a better response to their situation than that given by the First Minister today.

This building was closed through no fault of the school, its staff or its pupils but rather the scars of our industrial legacy – that are continuing to impact our children to this day.

It was shameful to see the First Minister play politics with the future of Godre’r Graig Primary School without even trying to answer my question about the need to recognise the exceptional circumstances that led to the school requiring a new building.”

She confirmed she will be writing to the First Minister to demand a “substantive response more befitting of her office.”

Related articles

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  Key vote scheduled on whether to proceed with merging Alltwen, Godre’r Graig and Llangiwg primaries.

• Senedd Member calls for Pontardawe super school plan to be rejected

  Sioned Williams MS warns the proposals would damage community life and Welsh language provision.

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#coalTipSafety #CwmtaweCommunitySchool #ElunedMorganMS #FirstMinister #GodreRgraig #GodreRGraigPrimarySchool #landslide #landslideRisk #NeathPortTalbotCouncil #newSchool #PlaidCymru #Pontardawe #quarryTip #SionedWilliamsMS #superSchool #SwanseaValley #WelshGovernment #WelshLabour

First Minister warns ‘Wales will fall into chaos’ if Plaid or Reform win Senedd election

Wales’ First Minister Eluned Morgan has warned that next year’s Senedd election could plunge the country into “chaos” if voters back Plaid Cymru or Reform UK.

Speaking at the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, Morgan said only Labour could provide “experience and stability in an age of instability,” while accusing her opponents of making empty promises that would damage communities across South West Wales and beyond.

‘Fantasy politics’ vs ‘stability’

Eluned Morgan, Welsh Labour leader and First Minister, told delegates: “Wales will fall into chaos if either Plaid or Reform wins in May. What we need is experience and stability in an age of instability.”

She accused Reform of planning to “gut the NHS, axe free prescriptions, and flog off and frack everything that moves,” while branding Plaid’s independence drive as “fantasy politics” that would leave families worse off.

Morgan also pledged new licensing powers to curb the spread of vape shops on high streets, and confirmed that businesses seeking Welsh Government support would need to pay the Real Living Wage, end exploitative zero-hours contracts and support trade union access.

UK Labour backs Welsh delivery

Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, reinforced the message, warning that Plaid’s independence plans would mean “billions of pounds of tax rises and biting austerity forced on working people across Wales.”

She highlighted joint UK and Welsh Labour investment in South West Wales, including employment schemes in Neath Port Talbot, nearly half a billion pounds in rail upgrades, and the £200 million Pride in Place Programme to regenerate high streets.

“Labour has ended austerity in Wales. Don’t let Reform or Plaid impose it again,” she said.

Election battle lines drawn

The Senedd election is scheduled for May 2026, with Labour positioning itself as the party of delivery and stability. Both Morgan and Stevens framed the contest as a choice between Labour’s record of investment and what they called the “division” of their opponents.

Plaid Cymru responded by accusing Labour of “talking Wales down,” while pointing to policies such as the two-child benefit cap as evidence that working families are struggling under Labour’s watch.

With polls showing Labour under pressure, the party is betting that a message of stability versus “chaos” will resonate with voters across Swansea, Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, Neath Port Talbot and Bridgend.

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First Minister leads tribute to Llanelli MP Jim Griffiths, father of the Welfare State

First Minister Eluned Morgan led tributes at a special event at Llanelly House marking the 50th anniversary of Griffiths’ death, describing him as a “forgotten hero” whose values still resonate today.

Griffiths, a former collier from Betws, became Wales’ first Secretary of State and was instrumental in the creation of Family Allowance and the wider welfare system that supported millions across post-war Britain.

“He may be gone,” the First Minister told the audience, “but what he stood for, what he fought for, what he achieved, is as alive today as it ever was.”

She said Griffiths would be “frustrated” by the persistence of child poverty, homelessness, and the housing crisis in modern Britain, but praised his enduring influence on Labour’s values of solidarity, equality, community and hope.

“The boy from Betws who went down the pit and came up fighting would be proud of what we’ve achieved. But he’d also challenge us to do more. To be better. To never give up the fight for a fairer, more equal Wales.”

The event was attended by Llanelli MP Nia Griffith, Labour councillors, and party members, with many calling for a more prominent memorial to Griffiths in his home communities of Llanelli and Ammanford.

Who was Jim Griffiths?

• Born: 1890, Betws, Ammanford
• Background: Began work as a coal miner before becoming active in the trade union movement.
• Political career: Elected Labour MP for Llanelli in 1936, serving until 1970.
• Father of the Welfare State: As Minister for National Insurance in Clement Attlee’s post‑war government, he introduced the Family Allowance and laid the foundations of Britain’s social security system.
• First Secretary of State for Wales: Appointed in 1964, he established the Welsh Office and became a key advocate for devolution.
• Local legacy: Instrumental in bringing the Trostre tinplate works to Llanelli, boosting jobs and industry.
• Died: 1975, aged 85.

Griffiths is remembered as a man of principle who rose from the coalface to Cabinet, shaping modern Britain while never losing touch with his community roots.

Calls for a lasting tribute

Deputy Mayor of Ammanford Calum Higgins said Griffiths’ contribution deserved recognition on the same scale as Gwynfor Evans in Carmarthen.

“Ammanford and Llanelli were once linked as a constituency and shared Jim Griffiths as their MP. He came from the working community of Ammanford and Betws, and represented his people at a national level. We haven’t given him the profile we should have.”

Llanelli town councillor Shaun Greaney described Griffiths as “undoubtedly a forgotten hero”:

“Everyone knows Nye Bevan founded the NHS, but few know the story of Jim Griffiths. A mural declaring Llanelli the cradle of devolution would be a fitting tribute.”

County councillor Janet Williams, who helped organise the event and install the plaque at Llanelli Library, said:

“Jim was a progressive politician and played a major role in bringing the Trostre tinplate works to Llanelli. He was a man of principle, and a man of the people.”

While funding for a larger memorial may be challenging, councillors say grant support could help realise a tribute that reflects Griffiths’ national impact and deep local roots.

#Ammanford #CalumHiggins #ElunedMorganMS #FamilyAllowance #FirstMinister #JanetWilliams #JimGriffiths #Llanelli #LlanellyHouse #WelfareState #WelshLabour

Chancellor and First Minister meet communities facing change in Neath Port Talbot

Residents of Neath Port Talbot had the chance to speak directly with two of the UK’s most senior politicians this week, as Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves and Welsh First Minister Eluned Morgan toured key sites in the county to see how communities are responding to industrial change.

The visit began at the former Dyffryn Rhondda Colliery in the Upper Afan Valley, where Neath Port Talbot Council is leading a major coal tip safety project. The Chancellor met with Council Leader Cllr Steve Hunt, Cabinet Member Cllr Jeremy Hurley, and contractors from Walters UK to view progress on stabilising the site — part of a wider £143 million UK Government investment in coal tip safety.

Later, the Chancellor and First Minister visited the Opportunity Hub in Port Talbot’s Aberafan Shopping Centre, where they met local people seeking work — including those affected by the closure of blast furnaces at Tata Steelworks, currently transitioning to a cleaner Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) model.

Staff from NPT Employability and the Trailblazer Programme shared how they’re helping residents retrain and upskill for long-term employment. The UK Government has committed £10 million to support this pilot initiative in Neath Port Talbot, Blaenau Gwent and Denbighshire.

The Chancellor also spoke with former steelworkers supported by the Employment and Skills Fund, set up by the Tata Steel Transition Board to help those impacted by the shift to greener steel production.

Cllr Steve Hunt said:

“We’re glad to see the Chancellor taking a first-hand look at the issues we’re facing here in Neath Port Talbot — from the dangerous legacy of the mining industry to job losses due to changes at Tata Steel. This council is working hard with its partners to mitigate these problems and we welcome the funding that is so essential for us as we move to a cleaner, greener future.”

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Work begins on Port Talbot electric arc furnace as steelworks transition moves forward

Construction has begun on Tata Steel’s £1.25bn electric arc furnace (EAF) in Port Talbot, marking a major milestone in Wales’ industrial transformation—but it comes with the loss of more than 2,800 jobs and the end of traditional steelmaking in the town.

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens, and Tata Group Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran formally broke ground at the steelworks site on Monday (14 July), signalling the start of a project designed to cut carbon emissions by 90% and shift production toward recycled scrap steel.

The UK Government has committed £500 million toward the EAF, describing it as “a major win” for Welsh steelmaking that secures 5,000 jobs nationwide. The new furnace will replace the site’s two blast furnaces—shut down in September 2024—ending a century of primary steelmaking in Wales.

‘Bitter sweet’ day for steelworkers and families

The announcement has been widely described as bittersweet. While Tata and ministers hailed the start of a cleaner, greener future, union representatives and local leaders stressed the impact of the redundancies and the uncertainty still facing thousands of workers.

Assistant General Secretary Alasdair McDiarmid of Community Union said:

“This bittersweet day is a consequence of the devastating closure of the blast furnaces, but importantly a future for Port Talbot steelmaking is being secured.

The workforce needs the electric arc furnace project to be both a success and a turning point… Going forward we must see further investment to develop and grow the business, both here in Port Talbot and across all the crucial downstream sites.”

Speaking ahead of the groundbreaking, First Minister Eluned Morgan said the construction phase represents “a tangible sign” of Tata’s commitment, adding that the Welsh Government is working with partners to support affected workers and promote economic resilience.

Former steelworker Graham Rowland said:

“I’ve seen good boys lose their jobs… This industry kept this town alive. It’s the heart and soul of the place. If anywhere can make that arc work, it’s Port Talbot. The knowledge, the grit, the people—it’s all here. We just need the right support.”

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EAF: cleaner steel, fewer emissions—but far fewer jobs

Tata Steel says the new furnace is essential to achieving climate targets and creating “a financially and environmentally sustainable future.” The company has reported losses of £4bn in Port Talbot since 2007.

Chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran said:

“This is a proud day for the Tata Group, Tata Steel and for the UK. At Port Talbot we are building the foundations of a cleaner, greener future—supporting jobs, driving innovation and demonstrating our commitment to responsible industry leadership.”

The new furnace will be built on the site of the Basic Oxygen Steelmaking (BOS) plant and is set to be one of the largest of its kind globally, capable of producing up to three million tonnes of steel per year. Contractor Sir Robert McAlpine has been appointed to deliver the build, which will also include a new scrap processing plant.

Operations are expected to begin in late 2027. In the meantime, Port Talbot will continue to roll imported steel slabs through its hot strip mill and finishing lines.

Supporting workers through the transition

Neath Port Talbot Council and the Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board have pledged over £100 million to support workers, businesses and community recovery. This includes:

• A £19.8 million Employment and Skills Fund
• A £21.2 million investment in Harbourside manufacturing and skills facilities
• A £13 million business start-up and resilience programme
• Additional community grants targeting financial hardship, mental health and career retraining

A recent survey by Public Health Wales found that 74% of local households expect to face financial pressure in the coming months, with food, energy, and housing cited as key concerns.

Council Leader Cllr Steve Hunt said:

“On behalf of the Transition Board, Neath Port Talbot Council is delivering targeted support to people and businesses both within Neath Port Talbot and further afield.”

Looking ahead

While the shift to EAF production represents a landmark shift in Welsh industry, many argue the transformation must be judged not just by its carbon savings, but by the long-term outcomes for workers, communities and supply chains.

Luke Fletcher MS, Economy spokesperson for Plaid Cymru and Senedd Member for South Wales West, said the start of construction is “welcome,” but warned that “the opportunity has been lost to safeguard over 2,000 primary steelmaking jobs.”

“Labour has promised a lot to the communities in and around Port Talbot,” he said, “it’s vital that those promises are realised now.”

Swansea Bay News will continue to follow developments across Port Talbot and the steel sector as this historic transition unfolds.

#CllrSteveHunt #CommunityUnion #electricArcFurnace #ElunedMorganMS #featured #LukeFletcherMS #NatarajanChandrasekaran #PortTalbot #PortTalbotSteelworks #steelworks #TataSteel

£1 bus fares for young people confirmed across Wales — but questions remain over operator sign-up

The initiative, which will run for a year, offers £1 single fares and £3 day passes to 16 to 21-year-olds on participating bus services across Wales and some cross-border routes. It will launch on 1 September 2025, with an extension to five to 15-year-olds confirmed for 3 November.

The scheme forms part of a £100m budget agreement between Welsh Labour and the Welsh Liberal Democrats, with £15m allocated for the initial pilot and a further £7m added to cover the younger age group. It was not included in the Welsh Government’s original draft budget, but was introduced following negotiations with Jane Dodds MS, Leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats.

Jane Dodds said: “So many young people have told me what a difference both the £1 single and £3 daily tickets will make to their lives when the scheme launches in September. This policy shows the real impact the Welsh Liberal Democrats are already having on people’s lives across Wales.”

The scheme is designed to support access to education, training, employment and leisure, while encouraging public transport use and reducing carbon emissions. First Minister Eluned Morgan described it as a “top priority” and said it would make a “real difference to communities all over Wales, especially in rural areas.”

Extension to younger children follows criticism

The original announcement drew criticism from Plaid Cymru and others, who highlighted that five to 15-year-olds — who often rely on buses for school and leisure — would have faced higher fares than older teens under the initial rollout.

In cities like Swansea, Cardiff and Newport, current fares for younger children are already above the £1 cap, prompting concerns about fairness and affordability.

Plaid Cymru’s Peredur Owen Griffiths called the omission “an unacceptable oversight” and said it stemmed from a “last-minute budget deal.” In response, the Welsh Government confirmed the scheme would be extended to younger children from November, citing complexities around school bus travel as the reason for the delay.

Children aged five to 15 will not need a pass to qualify, while those aged 16 to 21 must hold a MyTravelPass. Existing pass holders do not need to reapply, but new applicants can sign up from 21 July via mytravelpass.tfw.wales.

Operator sign-up still pending

Despite the official launch, no bus operators have yet confirmed participation, and the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) has called for urgent clarity on how the scheme will be funded and how operators will be reimbursed.

Aaron Hill, Director of CPT Cymru, said: “Encouraging young people to catch the bus is the right choice for Wales. Lower fares will help a new generation pick up a habit of using public transport – which will trigger more investment in bus services, benefiting communities up and down the country.

“In order to roll out this scheme in the autumn, bus operators need clarity on exactly how lower bus fares will be funded, and on reimbursement for individual bus companies which will be cutting fares for passengers.”

The Welsh Government says it expects the majority of operators to take part, particularly those already offering MyTravelPass discounts. A full list of participating services is expected to be published before the scheme begins.

Premium-fare night buses, sightseeing services, and long-distance coach operators such as National Express, Megabus, and FlixBus will not be included.

Local context: Swansea’s free bus weekends and future reforms

The announcement comes as Swansea Council’s Free Bus Travel scheme returns for the school summer holidays, offering free weekend travel across the city until 1 September. The initiative, which has run successfully in previous years, aims to support families, boost footfall in the city centre, and encourage sustainable travel habits.

Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Investment, Robert Francis-Davies, previously said: “We want to make it easier for people to get around Swansea, especially during the summer holidays when families are looking for affordable ways to enjoy the city.”

The new £1 fare scheme will follow directly on from Swansea’s summer offer, potentially providing a seamless transition for young travellers as the school term begins.

Looking ahead, Wales is preparing for major bus network reforms in 2027, which will see services brought under public control. The reforms aim to create a more integrated, reliable and accessible bus system, with local authorities playing a greater role in planning and delivery.

The £1 fare pilot could serve as a testbed for future pricing models and passenger incentives under the new system.

How the scheme works

• Who qualifies?
  • From 1 September: 16 to 21-year-olds with a valid MyTravelPass
  • From 3 November: 5 to 15-year-olds (no pass required)
• What does it cost?
  • £1 single fares
  • £3 day passes for unlimited travel on participating services
• Where is it valid?
  • On registered bus services in Wales and some cross-border routes
  • Journeys must start or end in Wales
  • Not valid on premium night buses, sightseeing services, or long-distance coaches
• How to apply?
  • 16 to 21-year-olds can apply for a free MyTravelPass from 21 July
  • Applications may take up to six weeks to process during busy periods

#1 #Bus #children #CPT #ElunedMorganMS #JaneDoddsMS #MyTravelPass #PeredurOwenGriffithsMS #publicTransport #WelshGovernment #youngPeople

Transport for Wales launches ‘Mistar Urdd’ train at Port Talbot

The train was welcomed by First Minister Eluned Morgan, along with Siân Lewis, CEO of the Urdd and Ysgol Tyler’r Ynn.

The new CAF Class 197 trains have been running all over the Wales and Borders network since 2022 and are part TfW’s £800 million investment into brand-new trains.  

First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “It’s great to see one of our new trains named after Mr Urdd, who has a special place in the hearts of so many of us in Wales and will bring a smile to the faces of passengers.

“What better way to travel to the Urdd Eisteddfod, and so many events in Wales this summer,  than aboard one of our brand new Transport for Wales trains.”

Lowri Joyce, Welsh Language Strategy Lead said:  “Who better and more iconic than Mr Urdd, who is recognisable by almost all children in Wales. We are also pleased to be supporting the Urdd’s Fund for All, to allow children from impoverished backgrounds to enjoy a holiday at one of their many camps.

“We are proud to give him a big Croeso Cynnes onto our network ahead of the Eisteddfod in Margam Park so do keep an eye out for him as he travels all over Wales.”   

Siân Lewis, Chief Executive of the Urdd, added:  “Getting to the Eisteddfod in Margam by public transport will be extremely easy.

“A bus service will be provided between Port Talbot train station and the Maes, and further details will be on our website.

“This goes hand in hand with our commitment to running a green festival and reducing carbon emissions.”

#Class197Trains #ElunedMorganMS #FirstMinister #MargamCountryPark #PortTalbot #TransportForWales #Urdd