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The National Library of Wales receives the diaries of Lord Roberts of Conwy

A collection of papers comprising the diaries of Lord Roberts of Conwy (Wyn Roberts) have been donated to the Welsh Political Archive at the National Library of Wales.

 The 18 volumes span the period 1970-1995 when Lord Roberts was at the Welsh Office and an opposition front bench spokesman on Welsh Affairs. As well as personal thoughts on the events of the day, they contain letters between Lord Roberts and figures such as Lady Thatcher, Sir John Major and Sir Edward Heath, various notes and newspaper cuttings.

The diaries refer to a wide range of topics including General Elections, the resignation of Lady Thatcher and the Falklands War although much of the subject matter is related to Welsh affairs. These include some of the key developments of the 1980s and early 1990s such as the establishment of S4C, the teaching of Welsh in schools, inward investment and the Welsh Language Act.

Rob Phillips, Assistant Archivist, Welsh Political Archive said:

 “This is a fascinating collection which gives an insight into many of the key debates in Welsh and British politics during the 1970s and throughout the Thatcher and Major years. It gives Lord Roberts’ personal perspective on some of the key events, and traces the political manoeuvrings both within the government and with politicians of other parties to get many of the key measures through.  We’re expecting a lot of interest in the collection”.

Further Information

Elin- Hâf 01970 632471 or post@llgc.org.uk

Editor’s notes

  • The Welsh Political Archive is a dedicated programme within the National Library of Wales to collect, store, catalogue and promote archival material which reflects the political life of Wales. The Library holds the archives of the main political parties in Wales, along with those of individual politicians and campaign groups.
  • Lord Roberts of Conwy was MP for Conwy from 1970 to 1997. He served as parliamentary private secretary to the Welsh secretary from 1970 to 1974 and as opposition frontbench spokesman for Wales alongside Nicholas Edwards between 1974 and 1979. He served in the Welsh Office as parliamentary undersecretary and Minister of State between 1979 and 1995 when he returned to the backbenches. Prior to his election he enjoyed a career in broadcasting with both TWW and HTV.
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