Conwy used traditionally to be a Tory seat. Between 1951-1966, it was held by Peter Thomas, who went on to become Secretary of State for Wales. Following a brief period under Labour control, it was held by the Conservatives' Sir Wyn Roberts from 1970, until his retirement in 1997.
The Conservative lead had been steadily decreasing since 1979, with the Liberal Democrats consistently coming second, with a significant third of the vote. However, it was Labour’s Betty Williams who won it with a 3.8% majority in 1997.
A further twist was added in 1999, when Conwy returned a Plaid Cymru candidate as its member for the National Assembly. In a narrow victory, Gareth Jones beat the Labour candidate by 114 votes. The local council representation illustrates the recent collapse of Conservative support, and the close battle between Labour and the Liberal Democrats.
The seat comprises the holiday resort and retirement area of Llandudno combined with Welsh-speaking inland areas which include some of the former slate quarrying communities. It also includes the University of Wales college in Bangor. Access to the constituency has increased dramatically following the opening of the A55.
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