Samuel Kurtz MS is “incredibly excited” to have been asked to become Shadow Minister for Economy and Energy in Welsh Conservatives Leader Andrew RT Davies’ new shadow cabinet.

The Senedd Member for Carmarthen West and South Pembrokeshire leaves the Rural Affairs portfolio to take up the new role.

“While I am sad to be leaving the Rural Affairs portfolio after three years, it has been an honour to stand up for, and stand shoulder to shoulder with, Wales’ farmers and agricultural community. I am immensely proud of an industry that has played such an important role in shaping me and who I am, and will continue to support our farmers in every way I can,” he said.

“This opportunity to take on the Economy and Energy brief, and continue the work of my good friend and colleague Paul Davies MS is one that I couldn’t turn down.

“Growing up in Pembrokeshire, with oil refineries, LNG terminals, a power station and a hugely exciting opportunity for renewables, I saw first hand how economy and energy were woven together.

“As we look to secure our energy security, grow our economy and improve the employment opportunities for all across Wales, there is no reason why our country can’t be trailblazing pioneers.“

“To bring genuine opportunity and prosperity to all across Wales will be my number one priority - and I look forward to challenging a Labour Government who’ve had their hands on Wales’ economic steering wheel for 25 long years. Let’s get the dragon that is the Welsh economy breathing fire once again!” added Mr Kurtz.

Meanwhile, rural affairs become part of the brief of Preseli Pembrokeshire Senedd Member Paul Davies MS, as he has been chosen as Shadow Minister for West Wales, and Chair of the Senedd Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs Committee in the April 2024 Welsh Conservatives shadow cabinet reschuffle.

Andrew Davies said he was delighted to announce the new shadow cabinet who will lead the party into the next Senedd election. “It’s time to drop ideological vanity projects like 20mph speed limits and focus on the people’s priorities,” he added.