Caerphilly by-election: what’s at stake?
The Caerphilly by-election, set for 23 October, will determine who will serve as the Member of the Senedd (MS) for the next six months. Triggered by the sudden death of Labour’s Hefin David, the election runs alongside broader Welsh Parliament plans slated for May 2026. Voters in Caerphilly will choose a representative to serve until the next Welsh Parliament election, when a newly expanded body will be chosen.
In this by-election, eligibility rules are straightforward: anyone aged 16 or over who is British, Irish or an EU citizen, lives in the Caerphilly constituency, and is registered to vote can participate. Polling stations will be open from 07:00 to 22:00 BST to accommodate voters’ schedules.
What happened at the BBC Wales debate?
The BBC Wales debate brought together six candidates: a mix of Labour, Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Plaid Cymru, Green Party, and Reform. The evening offered a chance for candidates to press their policies on health, social care, education, and local services, while addressing national topics such as immigration and the cost of living.
Several themes dominated the discussion. Health and social care featured prominently, with all candidates stressing the need to reduce hospital waiting times and improve GP access. The leaders argued over the best ways to fund the NHS in Wales, with some suggesting emergency Welsh fiscal measures should be explored if Westminster funding isn’t enough.
Trust in politics and local accountability
Trust and accountability emerged as frequent refrains. Labour’s candidate said voters are understandably disappointed after years in office, urging a renewed focus on delivering tangible changes for Caerphilly residents. Reform’s candidate positioned himself as a realist, insisting that while every manifesto promises much, the reality of delivering sweeping change in a six-month mandate is complex. Candidates acknowledged that a new political dynamic might be the appetite for Caerphilly residents—whether they want continuity or a shift in approach.
Immigration and the ‘Nation of Sanctuary’
Immigration policy was a live issue during the debate. Reform stressed a need for greater control of migration and highlighted criticisms of the current policy framework. Others argued that immigration policy is largely reserved to Westminster and not devolved to the Welsh Parliament, but they supported the Welsh government’s “Nation of Sanctuary” approach, arguing it reflects humanitarian commitments and regional responsibilities. The discussion underscored a tension between national policy decisions and local perceptions about asylum housing and services.
Local services and 20mph – a testing ground for trust
Local services were a central concern, with campus libraries and leisure centres featuring in the discourse. The 20mph policy, a point of contention, was discussed as a matter of public safety and cost. One candidate pointed out that the policy originated from Labour’s 2021 manifesto, with others arguing for a re-evaluation of its implementation. The broader question for Caerphilly voters is whether national policy priorities align with local needs and budgets.
What are the key concerns for Caerphilly voters?
Beyond party lines, candidates emphasized the essentials: reliable NHS services, accessible GPs, and the efficient discharge of patients from hospital into social care. Voters also raised concerns about the funding and management of local libraries and community facilities. With six candidates each offering a distinct approach, Caerphilly residents are invited to weigh not only party labels but also the practical track record and proposed actions of each candidate in a six-month context.
What happens next?
As polls prepare to reopen on 23 October, voters will assess which candidate best represents their 16-to-18- and older-generation voices in Caerphilly. The outcome will help shape the immediate political climate and influence discussions leading into the Welsh Parliament elections planned for 2026. While the debate showcased a spectrum of viewpoints, it also underscored the voters’ demand for clear, deliverable plans that address health, housing, and local services with accountability and transparency.
