02/12/2009

Jones Wins Welsh Labour Leader Race

Carwyn Jones has been elected leader of the Labour Party in Wales.

He will be sworn in as the Welsh Assembly's First Minister within weeks.

Mr Jones (pictured) fended off contenders Health Minister Edwina Hart and Assembly backbencher Huw Lewis in the first round of votes.

Gordon Brown said the victorious Bridgend AM would be a "true fighter for all the people of Wales".

Mr Jones took 52% of the first count last night, with Ms Hart polling 29%, and Mr Lewis eliminated after only gaining 19%.

Forty-two year old Mr Jones is almost 30 years younger than incumbent First Minister Rhodri Morgan, who announced his decision to step down in October.

Mr Jones previously held office as Counsel General for Wales, effectively making him the country's chief legal adviser.

He was appointed to the Cabinet position in July 2007.

(PR/BMcC)

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