Tributes pour in for ‘champion of small businesses’ Hefin David MS after sudden death
Tributes pour in for ‘champion of small businesses’ Hefin David MS after sudden death
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Tributes continue to pour in, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, for Hefin David MS, the Welsh Labour Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly, who has died aged 47.
Described as “a passionate champion of small businesses and community development”, he had represented his constituency for nearly a decade.
In a statement, the Prime Minister said: “The entire Labour movement will join me in grieving the loss of Hefin David.
“He was a powerful voice for the people of Wales and a committed public servant, who dedicated his life to making sure every person and community in Wales had the opportunities and support they deserve.
“As Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly, where he was born and lived, he was incredibly proud of his community.
“Our hearts are with his family and those who knew and loved him at this painful time. May he rest in peace.”
The First Minister of Wales, Eluned Morgan MS, said: “We are extremely saddened by the sudden death of Hefin. Our thoughts are with his family at this terrible time.
“Hefin was a much-loved member of the Labour family. He served Caerphilly as a councillor and a Member of the Senedd with pride and passion.
“He was an outstanding politician, warm and enthusiastic and a great communicator, especially on behalf of his constituents.
“He will be greatly missed.”
David had sat on the Senedd Committee for Economy, Trade and Rural Affairs and the Committee for Culture, Communications, Welsh Language, Sport and International Relations, and had previously chaired the Cross-party Group on Universities.
The Welsh Parliament’s Presiding Officer, Elin Jones, said: “Our thoughts go immediately to his partner, our colleague and friend, Vikki Howells MS, and to his cherished children and family.
“Hefin was so full of life and enthusiasm for his constituents and their causes.
“He was a passionate politician, loyal to his party, his country, and constituents.”
Keiran Russell, Chief Operations Officer of Welsh ICE, the Innovation Centre for Enterprise, said: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Hefin David. Hefin was a true friend to Welsh ICE and a passionate champion of small businesses and community development. He celebrated our successes, including our 10th anniversary, with warmth, humour, and genuine enthusiasm.
“Hefin’s dedication to Caerphilly and the people he served was clear to all who knew him. Our heartfelt condolences go to his family, his children, and to MS Vikki Howells at this difficult time. He will be deeply missed, and his impact will be felt for years to come.”
Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth MS said: “I’m deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the passing of Hefin David.
“Hefin represented his constituency with tireless dedication. He brought passion, energy, and independence of thought to Senedd proceedings and our parliament will be poorer without him.
“On behalf of Plaid Cymru I send our profound condolences to Hefin’s family and friends at this desperately sad time.
Darren Millar, leader of the Welsh Conservative group in the Senedd, said: “My deepest condolences go to Hefin’s family and friends, and I would also like to extend my condolences to the Welsh Labour Party.
“He was a man who always stood up for his constituents and was respected on all sides of the Senedd.”
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