Rhys Evans The Politics Show Wales

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The Politics Show Wales puts Cheryl Gillan MP, the new Shadow Welsh Secretary under the spotlight.

Although born in Cardiff, Cheryl Gillan has represented Chesham and Amersham in the House of Commons since 1992.

Already therefore the question is being asked here in Wales: just who is she and what does she know of Wales.

One thing is certain. She brings to the job a substantial amount of experience of public life to her new job.

Before being elected to Parliament, Ms Gillan cut her professional teeth as a marketing consultant whilst earning her political spurs as Chair of the left-leaning Tory Bow Group.

In July 1995, she got her first taste of ministerial life at the Department for Education and Employment.

1997 saw the Tories turfed out of office but the wilderness years have not been that barren for Cheryl Gillan.

As a shadow minister, she's shadowed a number of portfolios, from foreign affairs to home affairs.

The Wales job sees her entering new territory - both literally and metaphorically.

The Wales which she left is now devolved and the Wales portfolio is a cabinet job.

No doubt she is on a steep learning curve and eager to impress but what of her ideas about Wales and Welsh conservatism?

Are the Tories really set to embrace devolution?

Watch the Politics Show this Sunday for Cheryl Gillan's first live TV interview.

Adrian Masters

The Politics Show

The Politics Show Wales wants your views. Let us know what you think.

If you want to have your say, you can call 0845 300 90 10, or e-mail via the website.

... Or write to: The Politics Show, Room 1060, BBC Wales, Llandaff, Cardiff. CF5 2YO

The Politics Show - we aim to get closer to your community with our presenter, Adrian Masters.

Tune in to BBC One on Sunday 15 January 2006 at Noon.

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