Welsh Conservative Leader Discusses Christian Faith and Political Stance

Darren Millar, the newly appointed leader of the Conservatives in the Senedd, stated that his Christian faith is “part of who I am” and that “people need to get over it”. He further clarified that he is “not a person who likes to impose [his] views on other people”. The Member of the Senedd (MS) for Clwyd was elected to lead the Welsh Conservatives in the Senedd on 5 December, following Andrew RT Davies’ resignation on 3 December. Mr. Millar also serves as chief executive of the Christian charity, the Pocket Book Testament League, dedicating an average of seven hours weekly to the organization in addition to his political responsibilities. Speaking to BBC Politics Wales, he indicated that he would “reappraise those commitments” after his appointment, asserting that “the people of Wales should be on no uncertain terms that I am committed to them and my constituents”. Addressing a past association with a preacher accused of homophobia, stemming from his involvement with a different Christian charity, Mr. Millar stated he had “made it clear that [he does] not believe that anybody should be discriminated against on the basis of their sexual orientation”. Regarding abortion and reproductive rights, he affirmed that “he had always been pro-life” but also noted that he “believes in freedom of choice and personal responsibility – I do not like to impose my views on anybody else”. Mr. Millar’s election by his Senedd group was unopposed, occurring after Andrew RT Davies’ resignation. This succession came after a vote of confidence concerning Mr. Davies, which he won, although the process revealed divisions within the group. On Sunday, Mr. Millar commended his predecessor, stating he did “a fantastic job” and expressing his intention to “build on his legacy”. He remarked, “Andrew has his style and I have my own,” adding, “I want to plough my own furrow and point out that it is more important in politics to define yourself by what you are for rather than what you are against.” He outlined the Welsh Conservatives’ stance as “pro freedom of choice, pro personal responsibility, pro home ownership, pro farming, pro Wales and pro devolution”. Mr. Millar concluded by stating, “I want to take a positive message to the people of Wales which will hopefully inspire them.”