James Evans has doubled down on his opposition to plans to increase the number of Senedd members.

The changes as set out in the Senedd Cymru (Members and Elections) supported by Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru.

The proposed changes would see the number of members increase from 60 to 96, and a new voting system which removes the option for people to pick their preferred candidate, instead listing only the parties they belong to.

Mr Evans, the Brecon and Radnorshire MS, has consistently voiced opposition to these plans, believing money spent on more politicians will take away vital funding from frontline services that need it the most.

Supporters argue that an increase in numbers is necessary due to the expanded legislative authority of the Welsh Parliament since its inception. The Welsh Government says that while its responsibilities have grown, membership of the Senedd has not.

40 Senedd members are currently chosen from constituencies, with a further 20 from a “top-up” list. The new system would see 16 new constituencies - each with six Senedd members.

Mr Evans has previously voiced concerns on the plans to introduce a closed list system and how it could undermine elections and weaken democracy in Wales.

Advocates say that the changes would make the process fairer and would better reflect the votes won by all parties.

During a fiery Senedd session, a Conservative move to hold a referendum on the proposals - proposed by Darren Millar MS - was also rejected by Labour and Plaid Cymru.

The Conservatives also sought to introduce a recall mechanism - a way of letting voters remove Senedd members between elections if they’re found to have committed wrongdoing - and a flexible candidate-based voting system.

“I am increasingly concerned by the haste at which Welsh Labour and Plaid Cymru are pushing through with their plans to increase the number of Senedd members,” said Mr Evans.

“With the cost of living still high, It’s telling that the Welsh Government believe now is the correct time to waste tax-payer money on another of their vanity projects.

“Many of my constituents have told me they do not support having more politicians in Cardiff Bay. The Welsh Government should be focused on improving our schools, cutting NHS waiting times and supporting local businesses at a time they need it most.

“The amendments put forward by Darren Millar MS were the only way to ensure our democracy remained robust, and one which respected the voice of the people of Wales.”

“I am disappointed that these plans are one step closer to becoming a reality,” added Mr Evans.

The Bill will return to the Senedd on Wednesday, May 8 for a final vote.

If given the green light, the changes would be introduced in time for the next Senedd election in 2026.