‘The punishment election’: Is Labour facing a bloodbath in Wales?

‘The punishment election’: Is Labour facing a bloodbath in Wales?

Author: The Times April 29, 2026 Duration: 36:09

South Wales has been a Labour heartland since the party formed over a century ago, but speak to people there today and you'll find support leaving in droves. So can Labour avoid an electoral car crash? Could the other main parties capitalise? Ahead of the Welsh Senedd elections next week, we travelled to Swansea to take the political temperature.


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Guests: 

  • Professor Matthew Wall, professor of politics, philosophy and international relations at Swansea University and principal investigator of the 2026 Welsh election study.
  • Grant Berni, head of the Osprey’s supporters club.

Host: Manveen Rana.

Producer: Harry Stott.

We want to hear from you - email: thestory@thetimes.com

Read more: A walk round Pembroke Dock shows why Labour will lose Welsh election

Further listening: Get ready for a pub brawl, it's local election time

Photo: Getty Images.

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Each morning, The Story arrives with a clear purpose: to move beyond the headlines and explore the forces and people shaping our world. Guided by the experienced reporting of Manveen Rana and Luke Jones, this daily podcast from The Times delves into the most significant political developments and news events with a level of depth and context that only their global network of journalists can provide. You’ll hear more than just summaries; you’ll get a nuanced understanding of why a story matters, who it impacts, and what might happen next. The analysis is sharp and the storytelling is compelling, designed to fit into your morning routine seven days a week. It’s a direct line to the frontline reporting and editorial expertise of one of the world’s most respected news organizations. This consistent, in-depth approach makes the podcast a reliable resource for anyone looking to truly comprehend the day’s events. Supported by readers of The Times and The Sunday Times, the production maintains a commitment to journalistic integrity and thorough exploration, ensuring every episode provides substance and clarity.
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