New Conservative names priorities

Improving digital and transport infrastructures will be the priorities of Montgomeryshire’s new prospective Conservative candidate for the next General Election.

Craig Williams was selected by the branch members at a vote in Castle Caereinion on Saturday when he said he will also concentrate on enhancing cross-border services, particularly the NHS as well as championing the local way of life.

He said: “I am very proud of our way of life and I will be focusing on agriculture, tourism and small business. It is evident that the way we support farming will be changing as we leave the EU, but many issues are devolved and this needs significant co-ordination on both fronts.”

Montgomeryshire AM, Russell George said he looked forward to welcoming Mr Williams as a member of the local Conservative team.

He said: “Craig understands local concerns and is campaigning on the issues that matter to the people of mid-Wales.

He added: “It has been a great pleasure to work alongside Glyn for the best part of a decade, working together to promote and protect Montgomeryshire’s interests in Westminster and Cardiff Bay. We shall continue to work closely to help constituents.”

The selection follows the decision by current MP, Glyn Davies, to stand down at the next general election.

Mr Davies described Mr Williams as a ‘fantastic community champion’.

He said: “Craig understands the needs of the local people and the specific issues we face here in rural mid-Wales. I have no doubt he will be an effective fighter for the people of Montgomeryshire in Westminster.

Chair of Montgomeryshire Conservatives, Ruth Canning, said: “Over the last nine years Glyn has been a dedicated and committed Member of Parliament for the people of Montgomeryshire.

“And although it will be sad not to have Glyn as our MP, we’re delighted that Craig will continue Glyn’s fight for local services and make sure the challenges of a rural area like ours are not forgotten in Westminster.”