‘Independence supporting’ news websites launches with welcome message by Andrew RT Davies

A new news website that says it will support independence for Wales in a referendum has launched today with a special good luck message from Andrew RT Davies.

The Welsh Conservative leader said he was “delighted to be able to write a short piece to welcome the launch of Herald.Wales”.

The new site is part of the Herald group, which already publishes editions in Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire and Llanelli.

In his welcome to readers, Andrew RT Davies says that  accurate, nuanced, and balanced news is fundamental to democracy.

“The danger that comes from looking for news from other sources – especially social media – is that while ‘citizen journalists’ and commentators will have the passion and the local interest, they don’t necessarily have the skills, nor the editorial standards, that experienced journalists have,” he says.

“And with some social media news accounts, even those with vast numbers of followers, it can seem like it’s open season on some people and subjects, while others appear to be a protected species!

“Accurate, nuanced, and balanced news is also fundamental to democracy, and while I and my opposite numbers in other parties disagree on much, we will all rally to the cause of defending a press that is critical, transparent, and honest – and informs, educates, and entertains its readership.

“So, good luck to Herald.Wales as it enters a new chapter.”

‘Pause’

In his own introduction message on the site, Political Editor Jon Coles says: “We will report every political view. Make no mistake, though: we start from the position that Wales should have the choice over whether to be an independent country and we would support independence for Wales in a referendum.

“That doesn’t mean we’re an uncritical voice in support of independence. We’re realistic about the challenges it presents us as a nation. We will report each side of the debate so our readers can form their own opinions on Wales’ future.”

He adds: “Launching a national news platform is something we had been thinking of for two years.

“The pandemic and lockdowns made us put the project on pause. Despite Covid-19, our print title, The Pembrokeshire Herald, has bucked the trend of shrinking circulation and that’s encouraged us to take this next step.”