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North Wales MSs given key roles in Welsh Tory shake-up


May 15, 2026 - 146 views

Welsh Conservative leader Darren Millar has unveiled his new shadow cabinet team following this month’s Senedd elections.

The appointments are the first major announcement by the party since voters went to the polls on May 7, with the Conservatives now preparing to challenge the new Plaid Cymru-led Welsh Government from the opposition benches.

Among the appointments are several prominent North Wales politicians, including Janet Finch-Saunders, who takes on the role of Shadow Minister for Enterprise, Connectivity and Energy, and former Conwy Council leader Sam Rowlands, who has been named Policy Director and Shadow Minister for Education, Families and the Constitution.

Announcing the team, Mr Millar said the group would bring together “a wealth of talent and experience” and would work to hold the Welsh Government to account on behalf of communities across Wales.

He said the Conservatives would aim to be a “constructive opposition party” in the Senedd and would work with others where possible to deliver positive change. He also pledged that the party would continue campaigning for lower taxes, reduced public spending and improvements to public services.

The new shadow cabinet sees Paul Davies appointed as Deputy Leader, Shadow Trefnydd and Chief Whip, alongside responsibility for the Welsh language, culture, tourism and sport.

Natasha Asghar becomes Shadow Minister for Health and Social Care, while former Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies takes on the farming and environment brief.

Meanwhile, Peter Fox has been appointed Shadow Minister for Finance, Local Government and Communities.

Mr Millar will continue as leader of the Welsh Conservatives while also serving as Shadow Minister for the Armed Forces and Veterans.