Candidates need to work for our votes

WALES should welcome its position at the top of the campaign itinerary for party leaders.

One of the key reasons why so many people fought so hard for so long for devolution was the sense that the nation was too often an afterthought in UK politics.

Ninety-five percent of the UK population do not have the joy of living in Wales. Politicians have often appeared to target their election pitches at the desires of voters in “Middle England”.

But party leaders now sense that Wales could be on the verge of an electoral revolution; that the support of voters across its 40 constituencies is there to be won.

If Theresa May is serious about wanting a mandate from all parts of the UK it is important she should listen to people in Wales about their hopes and fears as Britain confronts Brexit.

Equally, this week’s shock poll that put the Conservatives in first place shows that Labour cannot afford to take this nation for granted. Its manifesto team should craft policies that would help Wales reach the higher level of prosperity it deserves.

The turbulence in Scottish politics has ensured that Westminster party leaders have spent much time thinking about this nation and the forces driving the strong push for independence. Mrs May has described the UK as a “precious” union, and if she wants to keep it together she would do well to listen to people in Wales about long-standing frustrations.

There may not be a strong push for Welsh independence, but decades of low pay and deep irritation at inadequate infrastructure have tested the nation’s patience for too long. There will be deep anger if electrification of the Great Western line to Swansea never becomes a reality and the opportunity is missed to connect north Wales to HS2 with fast lines.

There is excitement about the potential of city deals but we have been kept waiting for so long for a decision on the proposed Swansea Bay tidal lagoon. Similarly, thousands of commuters would rejoice if the Severn Crossing tolls became history.

Mrs May is no stranger to some of the most beautiful parts of Wales. Apparently, it was while walking in our country that she resolved to seek this election.

We can hope that in the weeks ahead she will become more familiar with our economic potential and the factors that have held back growth for too long.

Her decision to set her sights on seats that have not voted Conservative for many years shows the extent of her ambition. She clearly thinks there is all to play for and this should show rival parties why they cannot afford to ignore voters in any constituency.

But party leaders should be warned against thinking Welsh voters can be spun into backing a party or that a fleeting visit will be enough to secure a mandate for a half-decade of government.

Citizens will scrutinise policies on tax, benefits and Brexit. Everyone is fully aware of how much is at stake in this election; candidates must work for our votes.