AS the UK heads towards the general election on July 4, 2024, the newly formed Clwyd East constituency is experiencing a vigorous and diverse campaign. With boundary changes affecting the region, this new seat has drawn significant attention from various political parties and independent candidates.
Candidates Standing in Clwyd East
Becky Gittins (Labour Party)
Becky Gittins is the Labour candidate for Clwyd East. Born and raised in Bagillt, Gittins has a strong connection to the local community. She has a background in finance and has served as a councillor, focusing on tackling youth violence and protecting vulnerable groups. Gittins is also a trade union negotiator, advocating for workers’ rights. Her campaign emphasizes Labour’s plan to establish Great British Energy, a publicly-owned clean power company aimed at reducing energy bills, addressing climate change, and creating skilled jobs.

James Michael Davies (Conservative and Unionist Party)
James Michael Davies is representing the Conservatives, focusing on economic growth, reducing taxes, and enhancing public services. Davies highlights his experience in local governance and commitment to improving infrastructure and supporting businesses in Clwyd East. His campaign aims to build on Conservative values of fiscal responsibility and community development.

Alec Dauncey (Liberal Democrats)
Alec Dauncey, the Liberal Democrat candidate, advocates for education reform, healthcare improvements, and strong environmental policies. Dauncey emphasizes the need for better funding for schools and hospitals, along with policies to combat climate change through renewable energy projects. He positions the Liberal Democrats as the party of progressive and sustainable change.

Lee Lavery (Green Party)
Lee Lavery is the Green Party candidate, focusing on environmental sustainability and social justice. Lavery’s campaign underscores the urgent need for climate action, advocating for green energy projects and policies to reduce carbon emissions. He also emphasizes the importance of social equity and fair treatment for all citizens, aiming to provide a progressive alternative to the major parties.

Paul Penlington (Plaid Cymru)
Paul Penlington, representing Plaid Cymru, emphasizes Welsh independence and cultural preservation. His campaign advocates for greater local control over education and health services, support for the Welsh language, and sustainable economic policies. Penlington aims to represent the unique cultural and economic interests of Clwyd East, drawing on Plaid Cymru’s commitment to localism.

Kirsty Walmsley (Reform UK)
Kirsty Walmsley, the Reform UK candidate, campaigns on significant reforms in immigration policies and national sovereignty. Walmsley’s platform focuses on reducing bureaucracy, promoting national interests, and ensuring efficient local governance. She brings both real-world business experience and political insight to her campaign, emphasizing her dedication to family, education, and community issues.

Rob Roberts (Independent)
Rob Roberts is running as an independent candidate, focusing on local issues without party political ties. His campaign stresses the importance of community-driven decision-making and pragmatic solutions to local problems. Roberts aims to be a truly representative voice for Clwyd East, addressing constituents’ concerns directly and effectively.

Campaign Highlights and Key Issues
The key issues for Clwyd East voters include healthcare, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Candidates have been addressing these concerns through various campaign promises and local engagements. With the constituency’s diverse political landscape and the array of issues at stake, the election results in Clwyd East will be pivotal in shaping its future.
Voters are encouraged to participate in the democratic process and make their voices heard on election day.
For more detailed profiles and updates on the candidates, visit Who Can I Vote For and Wrexham.com.