I have been a political journalist for more than thirty years [for ITV, BBC, the Daily Mirrror, New Statesman and many other newspapers and media organisations]. I have worked with, reported on, interviewed and watched (literally) thousands of politicians. I have chosen to work with Dai Davies because I believe in what he stands, and is working, for. I asked Dai to tell me something of himself so that I could let you know more about the man who represents you in Parliament. My intention was to tighten-, sharpen-, brighten-, up what he wrote. I have changed my mind! What you read below 'About Dai' is exactly what he gave me, word-for-word. It sums up the man better than anything that I can write (despite 30-plus years of professional journalism). Please read, and then make your own mind up. By a man (or woman's) words you will know them. I think Dai's own words say everything about him as a person. It also states very clearly why I respect - and am only too happy to work with him, as he serves you the people of Blaenau Gwent, as your MP.
Paul Starling.
Dai Davies - in his own words:
Born in Saint James Hospital, Tredegar, in November 1959.
Lived in Mount Pleasant Square all my life.
Shared a house with my grand-parents. Only two bedrooms. As a baby slept in bottom drawer of Chest of Drawers.
Dad worked in Electrical Department of Steel Works. Mum was Home Help.
Completed Secondary Education in 1976, Started Electrical Apprenticeship in Steel Works. Fourth Generation.
Also Grandfather worked as a Coal Miner.
Worked in Steel Works for 26 years, happiest days of my life, wonderful friends and work mates. Family of Coal and Steel were very precious, we will never see the like again.
Enjoyed time with Apprentices.
Union Hero, Colin Hudson, The Rock. Wanted to be a shop steward after first Branch Meeting. Represented Electrical and Mechanical Department as Convenor/ Senior Shop Steward and on National Industrial Committee for Steel. Health and Safety Representative.
Works Council Secretary and at time of closure. Last three years in the Works hardest time of my life. Still Branch Secretary.
Believe in equality of opportunity; fairness; distribution of wealth; enough in the world for everyone’s needs not enough for everyone’s greed; democracy and social justice; and Christian values.