Keir Starmer pays tributes as Welsh Labour politician Hefin David dies suddenly

Keir Starmer has paid tribute to Welsh Labour politician Hefin David who has died suddenly aged 47.

The Prime Minister said the "entire Labour movement will join me in grieving the loss" of theCaerphilly MS, who has been a member of the Welsh Parliament since 2016. He said Mr David had "dedicated his life to making sure every person and community in Wales had the opportunities and support they deserve".Mr Starmer added: "Our hearts are with his family and those who knew and loved him at this peaceful time. May he rest in peace."

Eluned Morgan, the Welsh Labour leader, described Hefin as a "much-loved" member of the Labour family, who will be greatly missed. She said: "We are extremely saddened by the sudden death of Hefin. Our thoughts are with his family at this terrible time.

READ MORE: Rachel Reeves gives update on wealth tax calls as pressure mounts to target richest Brits

READ MORE: Donald Trump's call to to stop building windmills would see 'sky high' bills, UK energy minister says

"Hefin was a much-loved member of the Labour family. He served Caerphilly as a councillor and a Member of the Senedd with pride and passion. He was an outstanding politician, warm and enthusiastic and a great communicator - especially on behalf of his constituents. He will be greatly missed."

Gwent Police said a 47-year-old man was found unresponsive at a property in the Caerphilly county area on Tuesday. Paramedics attended and confirmed the man had died. His death is not being treated as suspicious.

Gwent Police Chief Constable Mark Hobrough said: "My thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to all of Hefin's family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time for them.

"After I joined Gwent Police as the chief superintendent for the area covering Caerphilly, I worked closely with Hefin on many occasions and I found him to be an engaging and thoughtful individual.

"A dedicated public servant to Caerphilly, his commitment to our communities will be a significant loss."

Elin Jones, the Senedd’s Llywydd (presiding officer), paid tribute to Labour MS Hefin David. In a statement, she said: “As a Senedd community, we are all devastated by the tragic news of Hefin’s death.

“Our thoughts go immediately to his partner, our colleague and friend, Vikki Howells MS and to his cherished children and family. Hefin was so full of life and enthusiasm for his constituents and their causes. He was a passionate politician, loyal to his party, his country, and constituents.

“He was able to effectively work across parties and seek common ground. Hefin was particularly well-liked across the Senedd. He was our Commissioner with responsibility for finance and undertook that role with diligence and skill. The news is devastating and reminds us of the fragility of life and the need for us all to support each other.”

Labour MP for Rhondda and Ogmore Chris Bryant said: "Hefin was a lovely, determined and courageous man who was a phenomenal colleague. RIP."

Chris Evans, Labour Co-op MP for Caerphilly said: "Such sad news. Hefin’s passion and dedication to Caerphilly was evident in all he did, and I will greatly miss him as a colleague and friend. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, especially his two young daughters."

Andrew RT Davies, former leader of the Welsh Conservatives, said: “Heartbreaking and tragic news that Hefin David, such a young Member of the Senedd with so much to offer and give to Wales and the community he loved has passed away. My thoughts and prayers are with Hefin’s family at this sad and difficult time.”

READ MORE: Join our Mirror politics WhatsApp group to get the latest updates from Westminster