Julie James Reflects on Political Legacy as She Exits Welsh Politics

As she prepares to leave frontline politics, departing Welsh Government cabinet member Julie James offered a candid assessment of her time in office, as well as her views on key issues facing Wales. James, who has served as the Labour Party’s representative for Swansea West, will not seek re-election in the upcoming May elections.

James has been a prominent figure in Welsh politics since she was appointed “Minister for Delivery” by First Minister Eluned Morgan a year ago. The role, which some might describe as unconventional, reflects her willingness to tackle contentious issues directly. With over 52 years as a member of the Labour Party, she has been influential not only within her party but also in shaping public policy in Wales.

In July 2022, her resignation contributed to a wave of departures that ultimately led to the resignation of former First Minister Vaughan Gething. Her commitment to environmental issues and social justice is evident throughout her career, which has included roles ranging from lawyer to assistant chief executive at Swansea Council.

James’s upbringing in a politically active household, with a father who was a Labour councillor and trade unionist, laid the groundwork for her political aspirations. After years of public service, she entered politics at the age of 53, driven by a desire to effect change. Notably, she has maintained a strong focus on climate issues, aligning her policies with her lifelong passion for environmental advocacy.

As she reflects on her cabinet tenure, James acknowledges the challenges she faced, particularly after being diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after her election. Despite her health struggles, she continued to work and contribute to cabinet decisions, believing that staying engaged was crucial.

Under the leadership of Mark Drakeford, James has championed significant policies, including the controversial 20mph speed limit in Wales, which she cites as a key achievement. She argues that the policy has saved lives and reduced insurance costs for residents, despite facing public criticism. James remarked, “We did things that were unpopular. The 20mph is a classic because it has saved tens of lives.”

Concerns About Political Landscape

James’s insights extend to the shifting political landscape in Wales, particularly regarding the rise of Reform UK and the challenges posed by Plaid Cymru. She expressed concern over the potential impact of a Reform government, particularly citing the party’s alignment with controversial Brexit policies. In her view, Brexit has had devastating effects on trade and economic stability in Wales, stating, “Nobody can point me to anything that Brexit has done that isn’t a disaster.”

The challenge for Labour, according to James, lies in regaining public trust. She noted that recent polling showed Labour’s support in Wales at a concerning 18%, highlighting the need for the party to offer a compelling vision that resonates with voters.

James also addressed the threat posed by the Reform party, emphasizing that their promises often sound appealing on the surface but fail to consider the practical implications for working people. She criticized their proposals, particularly those related to taxation for the wealthy, as potentially harmful to the most vulnerable members of society.

Legacy and Looking Ahead

As she steps away from her role, James is keenly aware of the groundwork that must be laid for future politicians. She has been involved in efforts to solidify policies against potential rollbacks by a new administration. Her approach has focused on embedding legislation so that it becomes more challenging to reverse.

With a mix of pride and concern, James reflects on her time in the Senedd. She has valued her role in advocating for progressive policies, and she hopes that her successors will continue to push for positive change. “We’ve got to give people something positive to vote for. I do not want people to vote Labour because it’s the least worst option,” she remarked.

In her final remarks, James expressed her unwavering belief in the importance of immigration, arguing that Wales should embrace newcomers to enrich its workforce. “We need those people, we need a lot of them. The more highly skilled, the better,” she affirmed.

As James exits the political stage, her legacy will undoubtedly influence the future of Welsh politics, leaving behind a commitment to environmentalism, social equity, and a belief in the power of perseverance.