The minister missed swimmer David Davies at the opening ceremony A “clerical error” has been blamed after a Welsh Assembly Government minister missed his flight to the Commonwealth Games in Delhi.
When Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones and an official got to Heathrow Airport the plane had left 12 hours earlier.
He has sent an apology to Welsh athletes after Saturday’s mix-up meant he missed the opening ceremony.
The assembly government says his other commitments mean he cannot now go, and examining if the money can be refunded.
Mr Jones was said to be extremely disappointed.
Last week he told journalists he was looking forward to the trip and had “discussions planned with a overseas representatives” on “a range of sporting issues”.
“I know Alun Ffred was meant to be there but wasn’t able to be there”
Jane Davidson Environment minister
The Commonwealth Games is the only multi-sport event of its kind in which Wales competes as a nation.
Asked whether it was embarrassing for the assembly government, Environment Minister Jane Davidson said: “I know Alun Ffred was meant to be there but wasn’t able to be there.”
Meetings missed
In addition to attending the opening ceremony, Mr Jones was also due to meet members of Team Wales and take the opportunity to discuss sports and arts issues.
Alun Ffred Jones was also due to meet other sports ministers during his time in Delhi During his stay in Delhi, he was also expected to attend the fifth Commonwealth sports ministers meeting, and talk to representatives from New Zealand about their new sport and recreation strategy.
In addition, he was due to meet British Council officers to discuss collaboration between Wales and India on cultural projects.
Mr Jones had travelled to Heathrow on Saturday straight from a meeting with the UK Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt at the Ryder Cup.
“Certainly it’s regrettable from the Welsh team’s point of view… it’s disappointing that Alun Ffred wasn’t there obviously”
Nick Bourne Leader, Conservative Welsh assembly group
He had been due to fly back on Tuesday morning.
Welsh Conservative leader Nick Bourne said it was hard for him to comment, as he did not know whose fault it was.
Mr Bourne said: “It doesn’t sound like it was the airline’s fault anyway. It’s unlikely a plane would leave 12 hours early.
“Certainly it’s regrettable from the Welsh team’s point of view… it’s disappointing that Alun Ffred wasn’t there obviously.”
Welsh Liberal Democrat leader Kirsty Williams said that she was “not that interested” that Mr Jones had missed the flight.
She said: “I’m sure that the minister and those making his travel arrangements will be suitably embarrassed, but let’s face it – these things do happen.”
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