As the UK prepares for the general election on July 4, 2024, the newly formed Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff West constituency is seeing a diverse and competitive race among eight candidates. This constituency merges parts of the previous Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff West seats, bringing together areas with distinct political histories and voter bases.
Candidates Standing in Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff West
Alun Cairns (Conservative and Unionist Party)
Alun Cairns has represented the Vale of Glamorgan since 2010. His campaign focuses on economic growth, reducing taxes, and enhancing public services. Cairns emphasizes his track record in Parliament and his commitment to local issues, aiming to continue his efforts in improving infrastructure and supporting businesses in the constituency
Kanishka Narayan (Labour Party)
Kanishka Narayan is representing the Labour Party, advocating for social justice, better public services, and environmental sustainability. Narayan’s campaign highlights the need for increased funding for healthcare and education, addressing the cost-of-living crisis, and implementing policies for green energy and climate action. He positions Labour as the party that can bring meaningful change to the constituency
Ian Johnson (Plaid Cymru)
Ian Johnson, the Plaid Cymru candidate, emphasizes Welsh independence and cultural preservation. Johnson’s campaign focuses on local control over education and healthcare, support for the Welsh language, and sustainable economic development. He aims to represent the unique cultural and economic interests of the constituency, promoting Plaid Cymru’s vision of an autonomous Wales
Steven Rajam (Liberal Democrats)
Steven Rajam is the Liberal Democrat candidate, promoting education reform, healthcare improvements, and strong environmental policies. Rajam’s campaign emphasizes the need for better educational resources, significant actions against climate change, and practical solutions to enhance the quality of life in the constituency
Lynden Mack (Green Party)
Lynden Mack, representing the Green Party, centers his campaign on environmental sustainability and social justice. Mack advocates for immediate action on climate change, promoting renewable energy projects, and reducing carbon emissions. His platform also includes policies for social equity, aiming to ensure fair treatment and opportunities for all citizens
Toby Rhodes-Matthews (Reform UK)
Toby Rhodes-Matthews from Reform UK focuses on significant reforms in immigration policies, reducing taxes, and scrapping Net Zero policies. Rhodes-Matthews’ campaign highlights the need for common-sense policies, protecting borders, cheaper energy, and upholding British values and free speech. He offers an alternative to the major parties, aiming to bring fresh perspectives to the constituency
Stuart Field (Abolish the Welsh Assembly Party)
Stuart Field is the candidate from the Abolish the Welsh Assembly Party, campaigning for the dissolution of the Welsh Assembly. His platform includes promoting UK-wide governance and reducing the administrative overhead associated with devolved governments
Steven Sluman (Independent)
Steven Sluman is running as an independent candidate, focusing on local issues without party political ties. Sluman’s campaign stresses the importance of community-driven decision-making and pragmatic solutions to local problems. He aims to be a truly representative voice for the constituency, addressing constituents’ concerns directly and effectively
Campaign Highlights and Key Issues
Key issues for voters in Vale of Glamorgan and Cardiff West include healthcare, economic stability, environmental sustainability, and local governance. The candidates have been addressing these concerns through various campaign promises and local engagements. The election results in this constituency will be pivotal in shaping its future, and voters are encouraged to participate actively in the democratic process.
For more detailed profiles and updates on the candidates, visit Who Can I Vote For and VoteClimate.