Senior councillor leaves the Lib Dems to join Welsh Labour

It’s reported today that Councillor Mike Priestly, the cabinet member for highways, environment and sustainability on Conwy Council in North Wales, has defected from the Liberal Democrats to join Welsh Labour.

Writing to constituents, Priestley explained his reasons for leaving the Lib Dems for Labour, highlighting the positive impact Labour have had in Wales:

“I have been struggling personally with the Liberal Democrats nationally since the coalition and find myself becoming more distant from their policies. I am a former trade union branch chairman and I feel like I am coming back to my roots.”

Labour in Wales is delivering real help for Conwy on projects such as Llandudno Railway station, creating and securing jobs in the local area like the 50 at the new Surf Snowdonia, 90 through the Lift Grant and saving 300 jobs at Robinsons Research.

Working alongside Ed Miliband as Prime Minister in 2015 there is real hope for the future in North Wales. My decision will not affect my work as a local councillor. I am proud of my record as a strong voice for our area and as someone who is always available to local residents.”

Carwyn Jones, Welsh Labour leader and First Minister, has welcomed Priestly’s decision, saying:

 “It is a pleasure to welcome Mike to Welsh Labour. “We know he is someone who cares deeply about his local area and he is an important addition to our Labour Group in Conwy and the party more generally.”