Glyn Davies to step down as MP

Montgomeryshire MP, Glyn Davies, is set to step down at the next General Election, it has been confirmed tonight.

Ruth Canning (Chair) and Robert Harvey (President) have issued a joint statement announcing the news, bringing an end to three election wins since he ousted Lembit Opik from the seat in 2010.

“The Montgomeryshire Conservative Association has been truly privileged to have Glyn Davies as our Member of Parliament since May 2010, and through no less than 3 General Elections,” the statement reads.  

“Glyn is a truly local man – born, educated and living his whole life here in Montgomeryshire – never has anyone been more committed to his Members and his Constituents, in a place that he holds very dear.

“Glyn has been an extraordinary MP, who through force of personality and by representing a major party, has in just a few years achieved an historic amount for Montgomeryshire. This includes, fighting to ensure that Accident and Emergency Services remain in Shrewsbury Hospital, and, along with Assembly Member Russell George, the Newtown by-pass after so many years. Most important of all his principles and determined stance, along with the alliance of protest groups, in the prevention of the construction of the devastating mid-wales pylon line across some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet.”

The statement went on to say that the Association Officers will instigate a formal selection process in order to select a new candidate in due course. A short list of candidates will then be voted upon by the Members of the Montgomeryshire Conservative Association.  

“We wish Glyn and his supportive wife Bobbie, all the very best in their future life,” they said.

Mr Davies has himself issued the following statement:

“To represent Montgomeryshire in the House of Commons is a great honour and privilege. Montgomeryshire is where I was born and have always lived. It’s my home and I cannot imagine living anywhere else.

“Deciding not to contest the next General Election has been a very difficult and emotional decision.  I’m the only person who can take this decision, and the current uncertainty in politics tells me it’s the right time to step aside, allowing whoever my successor will be the freedom to become established.

“I have successfully contested the last three General Elections, taking just over 40% of the vote in 2010, 45% in 2015 and almost 52% in 2017. That’s a lot of stress over a long period. To secure a majority of 9,285 at the last Election was beyond my wildest expectations.

“Unlike many MPs and their respective Associations, I have always enjoyed the support and friendship of the Montgomeryshire Association officers and members, even though the current Brexit turbulence. And I’ve had the professional support of Pam, James and Julie within my office who have helped with constituent’s problems and issues.

“The next General Election may not be held until 2022. I shall continue to do all I can to help constituents who come to my office for help, and continue to stand by commitments I’ve made when asking voters to support me.”