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SWANSEA: Gower MP Tonia Antoniazzi calls on Keir Starmer to step aside — as Swansea East’s Carolyn Harris backs him to stay

Gower MP Tonia Antoniazzi has become one of dozens of Labour MPs calling on Keir Starmer to step down as Prime Minister — warning that the party now faces “the real possibility of a Reform administration” if it does not change course.

In a statement posted to social media, Antoniazzi acknowledged Starmer’s integrity and his record on international issues, including keeping Britain out of the conflict between the United States and Iran. But she said the election results had made clear he had lost the confidence of the country.

“The pace of change is not being felt quickly enough by the people of Gower,” she said. “Recent election results make clear that the Prime Minister has lost the confidence of the country. Too much of our good work has been lost because we have not explained our policies clearly or brought people with us. When people do not understand what we are doing or why, they lose trust, and that trust is hard to rebuild.”

She warned that Reform’s rise posed a genuine threat that the current leadership could not meet. “We now face the real possibility of a Reform administration, a party that promotes Trump-style populism and exploits discontented people but is really about benefiting its wealthy backers. We need a Labour Party and a Government that are strong enough to stand up to that threat with delivery. I do not believe that Keir can lead that fight.”

She concluded: “For the sake of my constituents, for the Labour movement, and for the country, it is time for new leadership.”

The intervention puts Antoniazzi at direct odds with Swansea East MP Carolyn Harris, who posted a public statement backing the Prime Minister to continue in the role. Harris argued that a leadership contest would be “a distraction at a time when the country is facing serious challenges at home and abroad” and pointed to the government’s record on NHS waiting lists, workers’ rights and housing.

“This Government has already delivered real progress: NHS waiting lists have fallen for eight months in a row, workers’ rights have been strengthened, renters have been given greater security,” Harris said. “Keir Starmer should be given the opportunity to deliver the change we promised and get on with the job.”

The two local MPs find themselves on different sides of a rebellion that had grown to 85 Labour MPs by Tuesday morning, rising steadily since the party’s dismal performance in elections across the UK last week.

Labour suffered heavily across the board — losing control of more than 30 councils in England and around 1,500 councillors, while in Wales it was reduced to just nine Senedd seats, with First Minister Eluned Morgan losing her own seat. The scale of the collapse in Wales was particularly damaging for Starmer, with pollster Sir John Curtice having warned before the election that losing Wales would pose a greater threat to his leadership than any other result.

Starmer addressed the Parliamentary Labour Party on Tuesday in a speech that was greeted with a fresh wave of demands to step aside. He vowed not to “walk away” from Downing Street, saying: “This is nothing less than a battle for the soul of our nation.”

His speech was dismissed as “utterly inadequate” by one former minister, while ministerial aides to three cabinet ministers — including aides to the health secretary, home secretary and environment secretary — resigned their roles in protest.

Sharon Graham, general secretary of Labour-backing union Unite, said Starmer’s speech had not “cut the mustard”, adding: “There isn’t a cat in hell’s chance that Keir Starmer’s going to lead us into the next election. It would be the death knell if that happened.”

Antoniazzi, who has represented Gower since 2017 and is a former Wales women’s rugby international, has a history of independent thinking within the party, having previously resigned as a Labour PPS in protest at the Brexit trade deal vote. She was born and raised in Llanelli and has been a vocal constituency voice throughout her time in Westminster.

Harris, who has served as MP for Swansea East since 2015, is one of the most prominent Welsh Labour voices in Westminster, having served as a minister in the Welsh Office and as a shadow minister on gambling reform.

Starmer has so far refused to announce a departure timeline, insisting he will not walk away. Whether that position is sustainable as the parliamentary rebellion continues to grow will become clearer in the days ahead.

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Banking hub recommended for Mumbles as high street services continue to disappear

Mumbles has become the latest community in Swansea to be recommended a banking hub, after LINK — the UK’s cash access network — said the village qualifies for a dedicated shared branch. It follows an application from local councillor Will Thomas, who warned that years of bank closures have left residents struggling to access basic services.

If delivered, the hub would be the third in Swansea, joining Morriston’s already‑open site and Gorseinon’s hub, which is due to open later this year.

What the hub will offer

Banking hubs operate like a traditional branch but are shared by all major banks. Customers can withdraw and deposit cash, pay bills and speak to staff from their own bank on rotating days.

The project will now be taken forward by Cash Access UK, which will begin speaking to local businesses and searching for a suitable site in the coming weeks. There are currently 214 hubs open across the UK, including 12 in Wales.

Dr Chris Ashton, Chief Commercial Officer at LINK, said the decision followed evidence of strong local need.

“We’re delighted to recommend a new banking hub in Mumbles. Special thanks go to Councillor Thomas for helping to ensure we had a full picture of the town’s cash access needs.”

“Part of the fabric of a thriving high street”

Cllr Will Thomas, said the hub would restore a vital service that many residents still rely on.

“I’m absolutely delighted my application was successful, so Mumbles will once again have a dedicated community banking facility. Many residents still rely on face‑to‑face services, whether that’s for depositing cash, managing accounts, or simply having the reassurance of speaking to someone in person.”

He said the loss of high street banks had hit the village hard.

“Banking isn’t just about transactions. It’s part of the fabric of a thriving high street. When people come into the village to use banking services, they visit our cafés, shops and local businesses. It supports footfall, strengthens our local economy, and helps keep Mumbles vibrant.”

“A real difference for residents and small businesses”

Tonia Antoniazzi, MP for Gower, also welcomed the recommendation.

“This will make a real difference for residents — particularly those who need extra support when banking — as well as the many small businesses central to the area that rely on cash for their day‑to‑day operations. It’s an important step in keeping our community connected and thriving.”

LINK says anyone can check their nearest free cash access point using its online Cash Locator tool.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

New banking hub confirmed for Gorseinon after branch closure announcements
Gorseinon becomes the next Swansea community to secure a shared banking hub.

Plaid MS challenges LINK over Pontardawe banking hub snub
Concerns raised after Pontardawe was overlooked despite losing high street banks.

Morriston banking hub location confirmed
Morriston’s hub becomes one of the first in Wales to open its doors.

Porthcawl banking hub location confirmed
Another coastal town secures a shared branch as bank closures continue.

Gower MP breaks silence on WRU shake‑up after weeks of pressure from Ospreys fans

Antoniazzi — a former professional rugby player and Scarlets board member — had faced speculation that her silence was linked to her long‑standing ties to the Llanelli‑based region, at a time when fans fear one of Wales’ professional teams could be cut.

She has now issued a detailed statement, saying she deliberately chose to work privately rather than speak out earlier, and warning that the WRU’s handling of the crisis has “alienated supporters”. She also addressed the financial pressures facing the game and the uncertainty hanging over Ospreys players, staff and fans.

Antoniazzi said it was appropriate for Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart and Swansea West MP Torsten Bell to lead the public‑facing campaign, given their constituencies cover St Helen’s and the Swansea.com Stadium.

Tonia Antoniazzi: Rugby background

Tonia Antoniazzi grew up in Llanelli and went on to play rugby at university, in Italy and across Welsh clubs before earning Wales caps and appearing at the 1998 World Cup. She continued playing at club level into her late thirties and later represented the Commons and Lords team after entering Parliament.

Her experiences in the women’s game have shaped her political work. She has been vocal about the need for stronger structures, investment and opportunities for girls and women in Welsh rugby, arguing that progress stalled for too long. Antoniazzi has taken part in reviews of the women’s game and continues to call for long‑term change, better pathways and a culture that avoids repeating past failings.

Her full statement reads:

I have personally made a deliberate decision not to speak out publicly on Welsh Rugby Union’s (WRU) radical cost-cutting proposals because my priority has been to make a meaningful contribution behind the scenes, where I believe I can make the biggest difference.

For this reason, on January 21, I supported the Welsh Affairs Select Committee on its hearing on the issue. The Committee engaged directly with fans’ representatives, as well as the Chief Executive and Chair of the WRU and I took that opportunity to be at the hearing and speak to them all.

It’s an understatement to say the proposals to cut a professional team have alienated supporters. The hearing made clear that there’s a growing divide between the WRU and the fans, and this really saddens me.

Only through working through this together can a sustainable long-term solution be found – the alternative is that we let it tear the Welsh rugby community apart.

It’s clear the WRU is facing serious financial pressures, with multi-million-pound debts and not enough money in the system. Ultimately, the WRU and Y11 will be forced to make a commercial decision about the future.

What Ospreys’ fans, players, staff are facing is intolerable. I urge the WRU to dramatically improve its communication. We still do not know what the final decision will be, and this prolonged uncertainty is unacceptable.

It is only right that the Leader of Swansea Council, Rob Stewart, and Torsten Bell the MP for Swansea West, whose constituency includes both St Helens and the Swansea.com Stadium, lead the public-facing campaign.

Tonia Antoniazzi
Member of Parliament for Gower

Her intervention comes as the WRU continues to face intense scrutiny over its finances, its communication with supporters, and the future of Wales’ professional rugby structure.

Related stories from Swansea Bay News

‘We can’t shrink our way to greatness’
A fan’s view on the Ospreys, the WRU and the future of Welsh rugby.

Council leader issues blistering warning to WRU
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Swansea RFC fury over merger plan
The club says it was kept in the dark and urges the WRU to rethink its direction.

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Swansea Council threatens legal action
The authority warns it may intervene as the Ospreys saga escalates.

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Swansea councillor warns Welsh pubs risk being ‘left behind’ as business rates row deepens

Welsh Liberal Democrat councillor, Sam Bennett — who represents Swansea’s Waterfront ward and is standing for the Senedd in Gŵyr Abertawe — said ministers must “urgently change course” to stop Welsh venues being placed at a competitive disadvantage.

The row erupted after the UK Chancellor announced extra relief for pubs and music venues in England, cutting an average £1,650 from their bills next year. The support does not apply in Wales, and the Welsh Government has yet to confirm whether it will introduce a similar scheme.

When pressed in the Senedd by Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Jane Dodds, the First Minister declined to commit to matching the English package, saying she needed to examine the details first.

Bennett said that hesitation was already causing alarm among Swansea Bay businesses facing rising costs, staff shortages and falling footfall.

Cllr Sam Bennett said:

“Pubs and hospitality businesses are at the heart of our communities, but too many are being pushed to the brink. Scaling back business rates relief now would be a serious mistake.

Support cannot stop at pubs alone. Cafés, restaurants and other hospitality businesses are facing exactly the same pressures.”

Industry leaders warn Wales is becoming uncompetitive

Concerns over Wales’ business rates system intensified this week after a BBC report highlighted the widening gap between Wales and England.

The broadcaster spoke to Philip Thomas, Wales director of the Society of Independent Brewers, who said his Treforest brewery would pay no business rates at all if it were located just across the border in Somerset.

Thomas warned that the disparity was “impacting on our ability to compete”, with English rivals — who pay nothing — selling beer into Welsh pubs.

His comments echo growing frustration across the sector as new valuations and the end of pandemic‑era relief push bills sharply higher from April.

Analysis by UK Hospitality shows the sector’s business rates bill in Wales is set to rise from £83.1m this year to £135.7m by 2028‑29.

Political pressure grows — even within Labour

The political tension deepened after Gower MP Tonia Antoniazzi, who chairs Westminster’s All‑Party Parliamentary Beer Group, publicly welcomed the Chancellor’s decision to cut business rates for English pubs.

She said she had been “pushing for pubs to get a fairer deal” and thanked the Chancellor for listening — but made no reference to Wales, where pubs will not receive the same support unless the Welsh Government chooses to replicate it.

Welsh Government: ‘More to say soon’

A Welsh Government spokesperson said ministers were finalising plans for additional support and would announce details soon.

They insisted that almost half of Welsh pubs already receive Small Business Rates Relief, and more than a quarter pay no rates at all.

But Bennett said Swansea Bay businesses cannot wait much longer for clarity.

Cllr Sam Bennett said:

“Without urgent action, we risk losing viable, well‑loved businesses that communities in Swansea Bay simply cannot afford to lose.”

Tonia Antoniazzi and Henry Tufnell among 60 Labour MPs to back call banning social media for under 16s

The MPs have joined a growing push to ban all under‑16s from using social media, warning that children are being exposed to addictive platforms and harmful content on a daily basis.

The joint letter says that children are becoming “anxious, unhappy and unable to focus on learning” because of the sheer amount of time spent online.

The MPs point to research showing the average 12‑year‑old spends 29 hours a week on a smartphone, much of it on platforms they say are “designed to be addictive”. They warn that mental‑health referrals are soaring, with more than 500 children a day being sent for anxiety support in England alone.

The letter argues that the burden shouldn’t fall on parents, but on tech giants, who they say must be forced to enforce age limits properly.

The push follows a major move in Australia, where new laws now block under‑16s from having accounts on platforms such as Instagram and Facebook. Meta says it removed around 550,000 accounts in the first days of the crackdown.

The MPs say the UK risks “being left behind” unless it follows suit.

Alongside Antoniazzi and Tufnell, the other Welsh signatories are Ruth Jones (Newport West), Andrew Ranger (Wrexham) and Steve Witherden (Montgomeryshire & Glyndŵr).

Sharing Table’s Christmas hamper campaign celebrates seventh year delivering festive cheer across Gower

The 2025 campaign marked the seventh consecutive year that The Sharing Table has organised Christmas deliveries, with more than 100 hampers distributed across the constituency. Each one was filled with locally sourced, high‑quality produce with the support of businesses including Karl Davies Butcher and Shepherds of Gorseinon.

Ms Antoniazzi, who has backed the project since its launch in 2019, reflected on the importance of the initiative at a time when households across Swansea’s north and western communities continue to feel the strain.

Speaking on the campaign, Tonia Antoniazzi MP said:

“This campaign is a reminder of what makes our community here in Gower and across Swansea so special. Although Gower is often seen as an affluent area, it encompasses many post‑industrial and rural communities where families still face real challenges. These hampers make a meaningful difference every Christmas, and I’m hugely grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s campaign possible.”

The Sharing Table was founded by Andrew Copson, who initially set out to ensure families who needed a little extra support at Christmas never went without.

The project has since expanded beyond festive support, now helping to install kitchens in local schools, giving pupils and community groups access to vital cooking and nutrition education.

Andrew Copson expressed his gratitude to the community for their ongoing commitment.

“Thank you to everyone who has supported The Sharing Table throughout the year. Whether you donated, volunteered, partnered with us, or helped spread the word, you’ve played a vital part in making sure families across our community feel supported and valued.

“The generosity we see year after year is truly humbling, and it’s what keeps this project growing. I’m incredibly grateful to every individual and local business who has stood with us.”

Ms Antoniazzi added:

“It has been a privilege to support The Sharing Table’s wider work. Their school kitchens project makes a positive impact far beyond Christmas. Its been brilliant seeing them helping young people gain confidence to cook, learn about food and nutrition, and gain some important life skills. Andrew and his team are an inspiration, and the whole community should be proud of what they’ve achieved.”

Tonia also thanked the volunteers, donors, and local businesses whose support ensured the 2025 hampers reached families from Cockett to Gorseinon, Penclawdd to West Cross, and across the Gower peninsula.

“Every volunteer who packed a hamper, every business that contributed, and every individual who gave time or money helped brighten someone’s Christmas. Your kindness brought joy to homes across Gower.”

Residents wishing to support The Sharing Table, whether through donations, volunteering, or contributing to next year’s hamper campaign are encouraged to get in touch with The Sharing Table or Tonia Antoniazzi MPs constituency office.