‘Reform cannot be allowed into the Senedd under any circumstances’ claims Jane Dodds – and her support for the budget
The Welsh Liberal Democrat MS Jane Dodds has taken a firm stance against Reform UK, stating that they pose a threat to the Senedd and are not welcome within its chambers. Dodds, the sole Liberal Democrat member in the Welsh Parliament, has expressed her concerns regarding Nigel Farage’s support for Donald Trump, emphasizing that such alliances are not conducive to Welsh politics. Looking ahead to the 2026 election, Dodds has expressed optimism, particularly for her party’s prospects in various regions across Wales, including north east Wales, Swansea, Pembrokeshire, and Ceredigion. She remains hopeful of securing double figures in the upcoming election, citing the dedicated efforts of party members within their respective communities.
In response to the potential threat posed by Reform UK, Dodds highlighted the importance of unity among political parties to address such challenges. She firmly stated that Reform UK’s ideology is contrary to the values of her party and other mainstream political groups, underscoring the need for a collective approach in countering such threats. Dodds asserted, “Reform is a threat to us all, we don’t want them here,” indicating a unified stance against the party’s presence in the Senedd. With the 2026 Senedd set to have 96 Members of the Senedd (MSs) elected through a new electoral system, Dodds acknowledged the likelihood of a coalition government due to the absence of a single dominant party.
Dodds recently made headlines for her decision to abstain from voting on the Welsh Government’s budget, a move that was crucial in facilitating the budget’s passage through the Senedd. Despite facing criticism for her abstention, Dodds reaffirmed her commitment to pluralistic politics and emphasised the importance of upholding democratic principles. She also expressed her satisfaction with the new electoral system, which highlights the significance of every vote cast by citizens. Dodds remains optimistic about the future political landscape, acknowledging the challenges ahead while advocating for positivity, hope, and compassion in political discourse.
Reflecting on her role as the only Liberal Democrat MS in the Senedd, Dodds highlighted the learning experiences and challenges she has encountered, particularly in negotiating key decisions. Welsh Finance Minister Mark Drakeford commended her negotiation skills, noting the pivotal role she played in crucial budget discussions. Dodds emphasised the weight of responsibility that came with ensuring the passage of the budget, acknowledging the diverse interests and concerns that had to be addressed during the negotiation process.
In terms of policy priorities, Dodds underscored the importance of childcare reforms and social care initiatives, reflecting her party’s commitment to improving public services. She celebrated the inclusion of initiatives such as discounted bus fares for under 21s and enhancements in social care provisions, highlighting the significant impact these measures would have on communities, especially in rural areas like Mid and West Wales. Dodds expressed her dedication to representing the interests of all Welsh citizens, regardless of their location, and reiterated her steadfast commitment to evaluating each Senedd vote based on its merits.
As Wales gears up for the 2026 election, Dodds remains focused on her role as a dedicated representative working towards a better future for the people of Wales. She emphasised the importance of staying true to her principles while collaboratively addressing the challenges that lie ahead. Dodds’ unwavering commitment to pluralistic politics and her advocacy for positive change signal a hopeful trajectory for Welsh governance in the coming years.