The battle for Ynys Môn
LABOUR’S OWEN FACES FIGHT TO KEEP SEAT
THE FIVE names who’ll battle it out to be Ynys Môn’s next Member of Parliament are now known, with three weeks to go until polling day on June 8.
The seat is held by Labour’s Albert Owen, who’ll hope his personal vote will again deliver.
“I will fight to retain the seat that I have been proud to serve since 2001 and continue to put the interests Ynys Môn first,” he said.
“I’ve gained a strong reputation for bringing people together and have the experience to navigate our communities and island through these uncertain times.”
But recent polling suggests strong challenges by Plaid and the Conservatives this time out.
Mr Owen is defending a majority of 229 over Plaid Cymru, with candidate Ieuan Wyn Jones previously holding the seat between 1987 and 2001.
The party’s former leader said: “If Brexit is to happen, we have a responsibility to fight for the best possible deal for Anglesey.
“To ensure this happens, we need an experienced MP with the skills and ability to be a strong and effective advocate for the people of the island.”
However, in what has been touted as a possible three-horse race, the Conservatives have selected Aberystwyth-born Tomos Dafydd Davies, as their man.
Based in London and working for a communications firm, he’s a former civil servant in the Wales Office. Mr Davies says he has a ‘ten point plan’ for the island.
“Ynys Môn is crying out for fresh political leadership, with the enthusiasm of youth as well as the experience and influence from within government,” he said.
“We all know we face some challenging and potentially exciting times ahead, but with strong and stable leadership that has a clear vision for growth and prosperity, we can deliver a better future for all of Ynys Môn.”
Liberal Democrat candidate Sarah Jackson, meanwhile, said: “A large proportion of Ynys Môn voted to Remain in the EU and many more oppose the reckless decision of this hard-right Conservative government to pursue a ‘hard Brexit’. Only we are truly fighting Mrs May’s plans and want to remain in the EU.”
Finally, Ukip have selected Gwynedd based James Turner as their candidate this time out.