Ken Skates Leads Labour’s Bid for New Fflint-Wrecsam Constituency

As part of the recommendations by the Boundary Commission for Wales, all current 40 Senedd constituencies and five regions will be replaced with just 16 multi-member wards. The changes mean that North Wales will be divided into three new “super-constituencies”: Bangor Conwy Môn, Clwyd, and Fflint-Wrecsam. This restructuring aims to streamline representation, expanding the Senedd from 60 to 96 members and implementing a fully proportional voting system, which is designed to more accurately reflect the electorate’s preferences.

Skates was announced at the top of the shortlist for Fflint-Wrecsam last week, with Jack Sergeant, who currently represents Alyn and Deeside, in second position and Maesydre councillor Corin Jarvis in third. Other candidates include Norma Ann Davies, George Stephen Thomas, Tracey Jane Sutton-Postlethwaite, Richard James Brookes, and Malcom Nicholls.

Reflecting on his long tenure, Skates expressed profound gratitude for his time serving Clwyd South. “It has been the honour of my life to serve the people of Clwyd South since 2011,” he stated. He acknowledged the sadness he feels knowing that the constituency will soon cease to exist, yet he remains committed to his constituents until that time.

Skates highlighted his deep roots in the region, saying, “I was born at the Maelor and studied at Yale College, and I want to continue fighting for local communities.” His dedication over the past 14 years has been marked by efforts to advocate for better support from both the Welsh Government and Westminster.

He further emphasized the importance of ensuring North Wales receives adequate representation. “North Wales needs people who stand up for our region and our communities,” Skates said. “There are huge opportunities to support the growth of better jobs in our corner of Wales – and I will do my utmost to deliver them.”

The upcoming electoral changes bring significant implications for voters. Beginning in 2026, everyone aged 16 or over who is registered to vote will select either a party or an independent candidate. This shift to a ‘closed proportional list’ system means voters will choose based on party affiliation rather than individual candidates. Additionally, elections will occur every four years instead of five, and candidates must reside in Wales.

Skates anticipates that the 2026 Senedd election will be particularly challenging. “A new electoral system, new constituencies, and an unprecedented, deeply worrying attack on progressive politics by the far right looms over us,” he remarked. “Wales’ future is at stake.”

His selection as the lead candidate for Fflint-Wrecsam followed a ballot of local Welsh Labour members, reflecting his strong support within the party. As the political landscape evolves, Skates prepares to lead his party’s efforts in this new constituency, aiming to address the needs and aspirations of the community he has long represented.