I support the amendment in the name of my noble friend Lord Lipsey. Brecon and Radnorshire is the largest constituency in Wales and England by area, with a population of around 69,000 and an electorate of 53,000. It is a rural area with a small population, and to get the numbers up to the quota suggested would mean having a constituency that would cover an even larger area of Wales.
Brecon and Radnor at the moment is a very big constituency, stretching from Ystradgynlais in the south—which is the largest town with a population around 9,000—to Presteigne in the north. It is a round trip of around 300 miles. I know as I have done it. I spent much time driving around the constituency when I was a Labour Party organiser. I used to enjoy the
scenery very much. The drive over the Brecon Beacons is probably the most scenic you can find, I would have thought. The beauty is outstanding.
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My noble friend Lord Lipsey reminded us of the 1985 by-election. I was the Labour agent at the time, so I spent many weeks there appreciating how big the constituency was and the long distances one had to travel. I do not know if the Minister has ever been there. I suggest he pays a visit. Not only would he have a great time, but he will appreciate the argument for retaining the present boundaries.
Today, even with all the new technology, the MP needs to be seen and constituents need access to their MP. It is already difficult for the MP to serve his or her constituency because of the size. A geographically larger constituency would only increase that difficulty, not only for the MP but also for political parties to organise elections and communicate with the electorate.
One of the features of a democratic system is that the elected Member is accountable to the residents of the constituency they serve, not just the electorate. How much more difficult will that be if these boundaries in Brecon and Radnor are extended? I believe it reduces the voice of people in the area. There is a fear in Wales that we are going to lose a lot of seats. It is important for constituencies such as Brecon and Radnorshire that we can maintain the present boundaries. I hope the Minister will accept this amendment and keep Brecon and Radnorshire as a protected constituency.