Jeremy Miles prioritises 20mph speed limit review if elected as First Minister

Welsh Labour leadership contender Jeremy Miles has outlined a bold plan for his first week in office, should he be elected as the First Minister of Wales.

Mr Miles, currently the Education Minister, proposes immediate action on several fronts.

A significant aspect of his agenda is the review of the 20mph speed limit, a policy also supported by his opponent, Vaughan Gething.

Mr Miles said it was right that the default 20mph speed limit in Wales’s built-up areas was being reviewed – but committed to it in principle.

“I think there’s a case for bringing forward that review, making sure that councils have the guidance they need to make the discretions they already have within a national framework,” Mr. Miles said.

“I think the policy’s the right policy but I think we need to review it and to bring forward the point at which that (review) happens.”

He has also pledged to appoint a government where at least half the ministers are women, highlighting his commitment to gender equality and reflecting a wider societal demand for diverse leadership.

Additionally, Mr Miles plans to set up a new Delivery Unit within the Welsh Government, aimed at enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of public services.

This move resonates with his broader goal of ensuring reliable services for the Welsh people.

The establishment of a National Economic Council is another key proposal.

This council is expected to guide the government on strategies for sustainable economic growth, a crucial step in revitalising the Welsh economy.

Mr. Miles said: “This must be the year that we get rid of the UK Tory Government. Their incompetence, austerity, and economic mismanagement have constrained Welsh Government budgets, meaning real-world hardship for people and the services they rely on.

“However, none of that takes away from the absolute need of the next First Minister and Welsh Government to focus on the delivery of good, reliable public services for the people of Wales.

“That means having a government that reflects our communities, is relentless in protecting and improving public services, and is open to scrutiny and constructive criticism.”

Labour members in Wales are poised to cast their votes in the upcoming election to determine Mark Drakeford’s successor as the First Minister of Wales.

The contest, featuring Jeremy Miles and Economy Minister Vaughan Gething, is anticipated to conclude with a result in March.