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Mental health: Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies takes break

BBC Andrew RT DaviesBBC
Andrew RT Davies took over as leader of the Welsh Conservatives for the second time in January

One of Wales' most senior Tories is taking a break from front-line politics to deal with mental health issues.

Welsh Conservative Senedd group leader Andrew RT Davies said suffering from flu and Covid "had an impact on my mental well-being".

He said he wanted to be "open and honest" about the matter as "I know many people have struggled, and will do, with their mental health".

Former leader Paul Davies will deputise in Mr Davies's absence.

"Like many men, I've always believed I had a shield of invincibility and like many who have struggled, I've contemplated whether I should make this public," Andrew RT Davies said in a statement.

"However, as a leader, I believe you should set an example and I want to be open and honest - in the good times and the bad - as I know many people have struggled and will do with their mental health."

The statement prompted warm messages of support from party colleagues and political opponents alike, with Paul Davies tweeting: "Wishing you all the best for a speedy recovery. Get well soon!"

First Minister and Welsh Labour leader Mark Drakeford said: "I wish Andrew RT Davies all the best for a full and speedy recovery, and thank him for his openness.

"It's so important we reach out for support when we need it - I hope others are able to follow your example and do the same. There's always room for more kindness in our lives."

Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price said: "We heard powerful personal accounts of mental health struggles in the Senedd yesterday.

"Speaking out is brave and should be applauded. My best wishes to you, Andrew."

Welsh Conservatives Boris Johnson and Andrew RT DaviesWelsh Conservatives
Andrew RT Davies campaigned with Boris Johnson in 2016 when the prime minister was Mayor of London

Welsh Parliament Presiding Officer Elin Jones urged him to "take your time to get better, that's your priority for now.

"You'll be missed in your absence by all sides in the Senedd and we'll be glad to see you back and well," she added.

In her message, Tory Member of the Senedd (MS) Janet Finch-Saunders said: "Hope to see you fully recovered and back when you are good and ready Andrew."

South Wales Central MS Andrew RT Davies, first elected to Cardiff Bay in 2007, returned as the leader of the Welsh Conservatives in the Welsh Parliament for a second time in January.

He took over from Paul Davies, who resigned from his post after drinking with other politicians in the Senedd, four days into a Wales-wide alcohol ban in licensed premises.