I AM interested in the comparison C Bradley makes between Newport and Bath, in as much as both vote “yes please, more of the same” in general elections.
I lived in Bath for most of my life, and can tell him that up until 1987, it was a reasonably solid Conservative seat which changed hands to the Liberal Democrats and has been such ever since; however, the local polls are clearly showing a probable return to Conservative this time!
So, not so predictable, Mr Bradley. The reason for the decline in the fortunes of Newport is exactly the same as for the decline in many other places – the global recession. There was unemployment brought about by the closure of major industries, exacerbated by the Tory/LibDem government’s refusal to invest in Wales.
Now, at last, Newport is improving, with the city centre redevelopment and new companies such as Admiral moving in and others expressing an interest, not to mention the Ryder Cup and the NATO Summit – all brought about by the efforts of the (Labour-run) Newport City Council and Welsh Government!
Perhaps Mr Bradley is right – we should ask for “more of the same” in Newport, because despite the best efforts of the government, and the enervating negativity of a few residents, Newport is getting there!
S Davis, Alway Newport
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