James Evans has ruled himself out of becoming the next leader of Reform UK in Wales, despite saying he had received the support and encouragement of a “considerable number” of fellow MSs.

Mr Evans, MS for Brycheiniog Tawe and Nedd, said he had decided not to put his name forward following “much consideration”.

The Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd MS said a leadership contest risked creating “unnecessary division” within the group.

This follow the resignation of former leader Dan Thomas, who stepped down from the role yesterday after being arrested over the weekend on suspicion of assault and engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour. He has since been bailed and denies any wrongdoing.

Mr Evans, who is Reform’s Shadow Minister for Health, Prevention and Sport, said on social media this afternoon: “After much consideration, and despite receiving the support and encouragement of a considerable number of MSs, I have decided that I will not be putting my name forward to become Leader of the Reform UK group in Wales.

“I believe that a leadership contest at this time risks creating unnecessary division within the group when our focus should be on working together and delivering for the people who elected us.

“I have always put my family first, and ultimately the unity and success of the party means more to me than any personal ambition I may have. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has encouraged me and offered their support.”

Mr Evans has been an MS since 2021, when he was elected for the former Brecon and Radnorshire constituency as a Welsh Conservative. He was expelled from the Conservative Party in January this year amid speculation he was considering defecting to Reform, before subsequently joining the party.

He successfully stood for Reform at May’s Senedd election, securing one of three Reform seats in the new Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd constituency alongside Iain McIntosh and David Mills.

Mr Evans previously served as a Powys County councillor for Gwernyfed and held the Welsh Conservative shadow health and social care portfolio before joining Reform.