Welsh Political Icons

Almost forgotten today - and unfairly so - the life of Mabon (William Abraham) was a central bridge in the transition of Wales from nineteenth century Liberalism to twentieth century Labourism. Ewan Lawry tells his story.

The man from Prestatyn who represented Hull, sat in Westminster and Europe, rumbled in Rhyl, and became one of the few (but increasing) people to be named Deputy Prime Minister. Sam Tilley tells the story of the incredible and the unique John Prescott.

One of just three people to serve in the Senedd, the House of Commons and the House of Lords, Byron Davies is an absolute stalwart of the Welsh Conservatives. His contribution and impact is assessed by Tom Giffard MS.

A pivotal figure in Welsh politics who led his party into government and made the Welsh Liberal Democrats a vibrant force in Senedd politics, Mike German's story is told by Professor Russell Deacon

In a personal tribute to a strong friend, Eluned Morgan MS remembers Elystan Morgan, who died earlier in the summer. She tells the story of one of the most influential Welsh Labour MPs of his generation and a key figure in delivering devolution for Wales.

In a personal and evocative recording, Senedd Member Alun Davies reflects on the impact and contribution of Kirsty Williams, the former Liberal Democrat leader who ended up as Minister for Education, the apex of a long and effective political career.

"Ivor Richard’s story is one where the political setbacks certainly outnumber the political successes. But it is a career distinguished by diplomatic achievements and a massive role in the governance of Wales." Huw Edwards tells that story.

Few political lives end in such public failure as J.H. Thomas, who was for the first decades of the Twentieth Century a central figure in Labour and British politics. Ewan Lawry reminds us of this Welsh-born trade unionist who became a fixture of the MacDonald governments until his foolish fall from grace and power.

In a highly personal and incisive account of politics, Senedd Member Ken Skates MS tells the story of Sir David Hanson, one of the most accomplished and long serving Welsh Labour politicians in Westminster in the most recent quarter of a century

Icons sub-editor Jennifer Ramsay offers a detailed appreciation of her friend and boss Paul Davies, whose time as Welsh Conservative leader demonstrated his skills as a politician of both consensus and boldness.