POWYS’ newest AM Neil Hamilton has attacked Kirsty Williams over her support for Carwyn Jones in the Welsh Assembly deadlock.

Liberal Democrat Ms Williams’ vote proved crucial in saving Welsh Labour from a defeat which would have seen Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood installed as First Minister with the support of the Conservatives and Mr Hamilton’s Ukip group.

Mr Hamilton, who was elected as a Mid and West Wales AM at last week’s election, said Ms Williams should join Labour

Brecon and Radnorshire AM Ms Williams had taken a swipe at Ukip when she defended voting with Labour. The tied vote has given Labour another chance to try and secure Mr Jones as First Minister.

Ms Williams tweeted after Wednesday’s vote: "A ragtag coalition with UKIP does not represent my politics and is not something I would contemplate."

Mr Hamilton hit back at Ms Williams and accused her of ignoring the majority of the electorate in Brecon and Radnorshire.

He told WalesOnline: "Just a week ago the Welsh people made it clear they wanted change, and they were right to do so. For too long Labour has abused its majority power in the Assembly and ignored the views of anyone not in their clique of establishment cronies. Labour is arrogant, smug and self-satisfied.

"A change of government would be healthy for democracy, and good for Wales.

"Ukip voted to puncture Labour’s balloon of complacency and pave the way for a more inclusive Government which listens to other parties and shares power.

"Just last week 92% of voters in Kirsty Williams’ constituency voted against Labour and voted for change. Yesterday, single-handedly, she kept Cardiff’s Labour Government in power.

"The Welsh voters have spoken. The Lib Dems have turned their back on them and become a life-support machine for Labour. Kirsty Williams may as well cross the floor and officially join Labour. It is clear that her loyalty lies with them rather than her voters."

Ms Williams responded to the former Conservative MP’s comments by tweeting: "I have been in the same political party since I was 15 years old. I don’t think Neil Hamilton should start comparing political biographies!!".

Since Wednesday’s vote Labour has accused Plaid of reaching agreements with the Conservatives and Ukip while it has been reported today that some Ukip AMs could support Mr Jones in a second vote. Labour has denied reaching deals with Ukip.