Biography

I was born in the Vale of Clwyd as were my children, mother, grandfather and great grandfather. I am rooted in this community, and I want to see a fair future for all.

I am proud of my record as a hard working Member of Parliament. During my 3 terms in office, I have been able to take up numerous issues that many residents have come to me with; and fought on their behalf. From the refuse facility proposed near Rhuddlan Castle, to flooding in Prestatyn - I have listened to your concerns and acted on them. That's what I believe a local MP should be - a local champion!

I am deeply humbled to have been re-elected to serve a 4th term as your MP. But my role will be all the more challenging as I campaign to ensure that the voice of the Vale is heard by the Coalition Government.

Electoral history
Member for Vale of Clwyd 1997-2010, for Vale of Clwyd (revised boundary) since 6 May 2010 general election

Parliamentary career
PPS: to Peter Hain as Secretary of State for Wales 2002-07, to Caroline Flint: as Minister of State, Department for Work and Pensions 2007-08, as Minister for Housing, Department for Communities and Local Government 2008, to David Miliband as Foreign Secretary 2009-10

Party groups
Member, Labour Group of Seaside MPs 1997-; Chair, North Wales Group of Labour MPs 2002-

Select committees
Member: Welsh Affairs 1999-2002, Joint Committee on Statutory Instruments and Commons Committee on Statutory Instruments 2009-10

Councils, public bodies
Councillor, Rhyl Town Council 1988-99

Political interests
Anti-poverty, education, environment, safe communities, regeneration of seaside towns, heart disease