Newsletter June 2025

Welcome to my newsletter for June 2025

Spending Review

This Labour government is investing in Wales’ future. Investing in the economy, infrastructure, defence and health.

This is partnership in power.

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Chilli and Chocolate Festival, Merthyr Tydfil

The Chilli and Chocolate Festival brought a fantastic atmosphere to Merthyr Tydfil town centre this month, with beautiful weather and a strong sense of community spirit. The event was well attended and offered a vibrant mix of local food, crafts, and entertainment.

UK – EU Deal

The UK Labour government confirmed a new agreement with the European Union which will deliver on the core mission to grow the economy, back British jobs and put more money in people’s pockets. Extensive negotiations over the last six months have led to the third major deal struck by the government in as many weeks, following the US and India.

Trade Deal with the EU

Llwydcoed Advice Surgery

It was a busy and productive advice surgery at LLwydcoed Community Centre alongside Cllrs Sharon Rees and Ann Crimmings. It’s always good to chat with residents, hear their concerns, and offer support on the issues that matter most to them. Thanks to everyone who came along.

UK Business Confidence is Rising

Three major international trade deals were secured within two weeks, with India, the USA and the EU. Now, UK business confidence is on the up.

Aberdare Festival

We had a fantastic time at this year’s Aberdare Festival! It was a pleasure to catch up with Vikki Howells MS and fellow councillors Ann Crimmings, Sharon Rees, Gareth Jones, and Sheryl Evans, all enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and strong sense of community.

I had some great conversations with the team from Foster Wales about the vital work they do to support children and families across our area. And of course, no visit to the festival would be complete without a stop at Penaluna’s Famous Fish & Chips, always a treat!

Over £100 Million Boost for Military Homes in Wales

As part of a £7 billion national investment outlined in the Strategic Defence Review, the UK Labour government has announced more than £100 million in funding to improve military accommodation in Wales. This funding will support urgent repairs to existing Armed Forces housing and long-term generational renewal of military homes across the UK, including thousands of service families across Wales.

This investment is a key step in tackling the poor state of Armed Forces accommodation and ensuring our service personnel and their families have the quality housing they deserve.

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Aberdare Community School Head Teacher Visits Parliament

It was a pleasure to welcome Richard Owen, Head of Aberdare Community School and his wife Ceri to Parliament recently.

Congratulations to Richard on winning Head Teacher of the Year! This well-deserved recognition highlights his dedication, leadership, and impact on education in our community.

The Biggest Ever Investment in Transport

The UK Labour government is investing in heavy rail infrastructure across Wales and England via the Rail Network Enhancements Pipeline which, as well as funding the Oxford-Cambridge project, is also providing investment for the current redevelopment of Cardiff Central Station, improvements to level crossings in North Wales and support for the upgraded South Wales Relief Lines.

These improvements mean better, safer, and more reliable journeys for all.

Focusing on the Future: Tackling Child Poverty

It was a pleasure to welcome Alison McGovern MP, Minister for Employment, to Merthyr Tydfil for an important discussion on the UK Labour government’s forthcoming child poverty strategy.

It was a valuable opportunity to hear directly from organisations working across Merthyr Tydfil, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Caerphilly, and Blaenau Gwent. Their insights and experiences are vital in shaping policies that will make a real difference in the lives of children and families.

This Labour government is committed to tackling child poverty and ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.

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Quakers Yard Advice Surgery

Good to catch up with local Councillors Cllr Gareth Richards and Ian Thomas at the Fir Tree Drive Community Centre Advice Surgery.

It’s always valuable to hear directly from residents and work together to support our community.

Opening of the A465

The A465 Heads of the Valleys Road is now fully open! Thrilled to join Ken Skates MS, Mark Drakeford, Dawn Bowden MS and Vikki Howells MS for the official opening of this £1.4bn project, one of the UK’s biggest road upgrades.

This investment has created 2,200 jobs, boosted local businesses, and will better connect communities across the Valleys, South and West Wales. A huge step forward for transport, opportunity, and our future.

Out and About in Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare and Other Events

Street surgery in Cae Felin Parc, Hirwaun.
Met with the FA Wales and Cymru Football Foundation in Parliament.
Spoke to residents in Park Ward alongside Vikki Howells MS and the Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare Labour Party.
A morning chatting on the doorsteps in Cwmbach, Aberdare with the Labour team.
Street surgery with the team in Edwardsville.

Advice Surgeries

As well as my work in Parliament, my team and I are available to help constituents all year round, with a range of issues, including for example benefit entitlements, HMRC issues, housing, Home Office, and passport issues.

I hold regular advice surgeries across the constituency. These are an opportunity for residents in Merthyr Tydfil & Aberdare to come and chat with me about issues I feel I could offer advice and assistance.

To discuss specific issues, and to book an appointment, please call my team on 01685 383 739 or email Gerald.Jones.MP@parliament.uk.