06.11.17
New Welsh local government secretary appointed amid Carl Sargeant controversy
Alun Davies has been appointed cabinet secretary for local government and public services following a reshuffle prompted by the removal of communities secretary Carl Sargeant.
Davies returns to the cabinet for the first time since 2014, when he was removed from the post of environment secretary after putting pressure on staff to reveal private information about other AMs.
The responsibility for local government was previously placed with Mark Drakeford, cabinet secretary for finance, but has been given to Davies with the new post.
Sargeant stepped away from his role following allegations against his “personal conduct” and also had the party whip removed. An investigation will now take place but the AM says he is confident he will be able to return to his position.
There were a number of other changes within the council, including the addition of ex-Plaid Cymru leader and independent AM Dafydd Elis-Thomas as minister for culture, tourism and sport.
First minister Carwyn Jones said he was pleased with the changes and confident the new appointments would be a positive move for the cabinet.
He added: “I am proud to announce my new ministerial team, which provides a balance of experience and stability, with new drive and energy.
“This strong team will drive forward our ambitious plans for Wales – focusing on growing the Welsh economy, creating jobs, supporting our public services and improving the day-to-day lives of the people of Wales.”
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