Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “The entire Labour movement will join me in grieving the loss of Hefin David.
“He was a powerful voice for the people of Wales and a committed public servant, who
dedicated his life to making sure every person and community in Wales had the
opportunities and support they deserve.
“As Member of the Senedd for Caerphilly, where he was born and lived, he was incredibly
proud of his community.
“Our hearts are with his family and those who knew and loved him at this painful time. May he rest in peace.”
Elin Jones, the speaker or Llywydd, paid tribute to Dr David who was the Senedd
commissioner responsible for budgeting.
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
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.”
Welsh secretary Jo Stevens also paid tribute to a dear friend and colleague.
She said: “Hefin was a genuine, clever and caring man – deeply proud of Caerphilly. And, in
Hefin, Caerphilly had a dedicated and committed representative.”
Dr David, a Labour backbencher who was unafraid to speak out or go against the party line,
campaigned on behalf of constituents on issues including disability.
In December, Dr David, who had two daughters, led a debate calling for an end to the
human rights scandal of autistic people being locked up in hospitals. And, in July, he backed a widow’s campaign for Owain’s law to improve brain tumour treatment.
Plaid Cymru’s Sioned Williams said: “I worked cross-party with Hefin to protect disabled
people’s rights, of which he was a true champion.”
Delyth Jewell, Plaid Cymru’s deputy leader in the Senedd, described Dr David as always
“steadfast in his views and loyal to his roots”.
“He represented this area diligently,” she said. “We were from different parties but worked
together on many local issues. I will miss him – what a sad and dreadful loss.”
Jeff Cuthbert, his predecessor as Caerphilly’s Senedd member, said: “My thoughts are with
his family and many friends. He was my friend as well as a trusted colleague and comrade.”
Darren Millar, leader of the Conservative opposition in the Senedd, sent his condolences to Dr David’s family, friends and Labour colleagues.
He d escribed the Labour politician as a man who always stood up for constituents and who
was well-respected across the political divide.