Wales needs practical debate, not political walkouts
Elected representatives should turn up, argue their case and do the job. My view on the Senedd walkout, free speech and responsibility.
11/12/20262 min read
People elect politicians to represent them, challenge decisions and get on with the job. That responsibility should come before party loyalty.
If I had been elected to the Senedd, I would have been at my desk and taking part in proceedings, regardless of my party’s position. The people who elected me would deserve to have their voice heard in the chamber, particularly when there are so many practical issues facing communities across Wales.
Reform UK’s decision to boycott much of the Senedd’s proceedings following the ruling against Joe Martin is not, in my opinion, doing the party any favours. Its members said they remained in their offices working for constituents and returned to vote later that day. Nevertheless, by staying away from the debate, they passed up opportunities to question ministers and speak for the people they represent.
Freedom of speech and responsibility
I believe people should be able to raise concerns about immigration, population change and pressure on public services without being dismissed or shouted down. These are legitimate subjects for democratic debate, and they should be discussed openly and honestly.
But describing white people as being “replaced” is not the same as asking serious questions about immigration policy. It risks portraying our neighbours and fellow citizens as a threat because of their background. Being Welsh or British is not determined by skin colour.
At the same time, preventing an elected member from speaking in the chamber is a serious step. The rules of parliamentary conduct must be applied fairly, consistently and proportionately, regardless of party. There should be room to challenge both what a member says and how the Presiding Officer responds.
Two things can be true: the language can be wrong, and the sanction can still deserve scrutiny.
Get back to the issues that matter
For residents in Ebbw Vale South and across Blaenau Gwent, politics should be about the things that affect daily life: access to healthcare, decent housing, good schools, opportunities for work, safer streets and reliable public services.
These issues deserve serious questions, honest answers and practical solutions. They will not be resolved by walking away from debate.
I have never believed that party loyalty should come before the people an elected representative serves. We can disagree strongly, challenge those in power and defend the right to speak, while still treating others with respect and taking our responsibilities seriously.
My view is simple: turn up, argue your case and do the job you were elected to do.
Freedom of speech matters. So does responsibility. Neither should become an excuse to stop doing the job.
Cllr Jonathan Millard, Unaligned Independent Councillor - Ebbw Vale South
