Julie James MS

Julie James was a Member of the Welsh Parliament between May 2011 and April 2026. This was her biography at the time that she left.

Key interests and achievements

Julie is a committed green campaigner, environmentalist and a keen swimmer and skier. Julie is a member of Unison and is also a member of Gray’s Inn.

Personal history

Julie was born in Swansea but spent significant portions of her youth living around the world with her family. Julie spent her early career in London and then moved back to Swansea with her husband to raise their three children and to be closer to her family.

Professional background

Until she was elected as Assembly Member for Swansea West, Julie was a leading environmental and constitutional lawyer. Prior to this, she was assistant chief executive at Swansea Council. She spent most of her legal career in local government, working as a policy lawyer with the London Borough of Camden before returning to Swansea to work for West Glamorgan County Council and then the City and County of Swansea.

Political history

Julie joined the Labour party at university, and was an active member until she took on politically restricted posts in a number of councils.