RESPONDING to the news of the death of former Blaenau Gwent MP Llew Smith, Welsh Labour Leader and First Minister Mark Drakeford said:

“I’m saddened to hear of Llew’s passing.

“As a Member of the European Parliament and the Member of Parliament for Blaenau Gwent, Llew was a fierce advocate for the communities he represented. He was firm in his beliefs, and never shied from speaking out on the important issues of the day.

“Llew was a radical socialist in the Blaenau Gwent tradition.

“My thoughts are with Llew’s family and friends at this difficult time.”