Archbishop of Wales to chair national debate bringing together major political parties ahead of Welsh election
THE SALVATION ARMY in Wales is set to host a national Senedd election hustings event later this month, bringing together politicians from across the political spectrum to answer questions on key issues affecting communities in Wales.
The event will take place on Wednesday, April 22, at The Salvation Army church on Hill Street, Newport, beginning at 7pm.
Chaired by The Most Reverend Cherry Vann, Archbishop of Wales, the debate will run for around two hours in a question-and-answer format, with discussion focused on justice, reconciliation, and the wellbeing of society.
Representatives from the six highest polling political parties in Wales — Labour, Conservative, Plaid Cymru, Liberal Democrats, Reform, and the Green Party — have been invited to take part.
Questions will be submitted in advance by representatives of churches, faith communities, voluntary organisations, and wider third-sector partners from across Wales, with additional questions to be taken on the night where time allows.
Captain Kathryn Stowers, who leads The Salvation Army church in Newport, said the organisation wanted to provide a neutral and accessible space for democratic engagement.
“We feel it is important to provide a safe space for people of faith to ask questions of candidates for the forthcoming Senedd elections,” she said.
“Hosting it at The Salvation Army Hall with the Archbishop of Wales presiding sends a positive message to politicians and the public that we are united in seeking justice and reconciliation through political engagement.”
Churches, faith groups and voluntary and social sector organisations are invited to attend or nominate representatives, with each group able to bring up to four additional attendees.
Organisers have invited advance questions and attendance details to be submitted via [email protected].
