Lukewarm support for Welsh political leaders

WORRYING figures have emerged for Wales’ political leaders, with as many as 71% of voters unable to offer an opinion on which current party leader would make the best First Minister.

The most popular candidate for the post was Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price on 12%, with current First Minister and Welsh Labour leader Mark Drakeford on 8%, and Welsh Conservative Senedd leader Paul Davies on 6%.

Mr Price was the only party leader who had more than 50% support for being First Minister from his own party’s supporters.

When asked who would make the best First Minister, 52% of Plaid supporters said Mr Price, with Mr Drakeford on 14%, Mr Davies on 2% and 33% Don’t Knows.

Of Labour supporters, Mr Drakeford was backed by 18%, Mr Price by 12%, Mr Davies by 1%, with 68% Don’t Knows.

When it came to the Conservatives, only 17% backed Mr Davies, with 5% backing Mr Price and 3% Mr Drakeford. As many as 75% were Don’t Knows.

A Plaid Cymru spokesman said; “Adam Price has consistently polled a higher popularity rating than the other party leaders – and is a far more appealing proposition to voters as First Minister than the current incumbent.

“Only by electing a Plaid Cymru

First Minister will Wales transform itself as a nation and on to a prosperous future.”

“This is a damning verdict on the Labour leader’s first year in office.

“Wales has been held back by 12 months of dither and delay and, as the poll confirms, change cannot come soon enough.”

The poll, by YouGov for Cardiff University and ITV Wales, was conducted between January 20 and January 23.