Political Shake-Up: Welsh Conservatives Bid Farewell to Chairman Bernard Gentry

In a significant shift within the Welsh Conservatives, the party has opted to replace its chairman, Bernard Gentry, after just a year in the position. Lord Davies of Gower, a former MP, has been elected unopposed to take over the role, illustrating a notable change in leadership dynamics. This decision follows months of turmoil, particularly concerning members in northwest Wales, who faced challenges within their local federation. Additionally, controversy surrounding the sale of a Tory office on Anglesey has cast a shadow over Gentry’s tenure.

Darren Millar, the party’s Senedd leader, expressed gratitude toward Gentry for his service while also congratulating Lord Davies on his election. The chairman of the Welsh Conservative party is responsible for overseeing grassroots activities, making this transition pivotal as the party gears up for the upcoming Senedd elections.

In an interview with BBC Wales, Gentry hinted at having been pressured out, stating, “You’d have to ask others that,” indicating potential rifts within the party’s upper echelons. While he refrained from openly blaming senior figures, he acknowledged suspicions regarding the dynamics at play.

Meanwhile, other leadership positions were filled, with Abigail Manon and Lyndon Jones stepping into deputy roles. Gentry, reflecting on his experience, emphasized the importance of accepting electoral outcomes graciously, wishing success to his successors.

During Gentry’s leadership, the party initiated new selection processes for future elections, which some grassroots members found contentious due to an incumbency protection rule benefiting existing Senedd representatives. An official letter from the party’s returning officer cited a lack of endorsement from regional management as the reason for invalidating Gentry’s nomination for continued leadership.

In his first statements since being elected, Lord Davies expressed enthusiasm for his role and outlined the party’s agenda, which includes abolishing Welsh stamp duty, eliminating business rates for high street businesses and pubs, and maintaining a favorable stance for Welsh farmers. He claimed that the Welsh Conservatives ahead of the elections have a credible plan, distinguishing themselves from other political factions.