27 June 2008
Cllr John Davies (Pembrokeshire) has been elected as the new WLGA leader.
His appointment was agreed during the WLGA AGM in Llandrindod Wells today, yet all parties in the Association have agreed to continue the power sharing arrangements that have characterised WLGA business over the past four years.
Cllr John Davies said:
“I am delighted to accept the WLGA leadership position. The Association is a hugely effective representative body for local government and the fact that we set aside party differences and work as a unified body shows the maturity of political leadership across Wales’ 22 councils.
I am particularly pleased to be working alongside Councillors Derek Vaughan and Meryl Gravell who have been central to making the WLGA one of the most successful lobbying bodies in Wales and a force to be reckoned with. This new structure draws in leaders from all parts of Wales and I look forward to the next four years and in ensuring that the voice of local government is heard loud and clear in Wales.”
Steve Thomas WLGA Chief Executive added:
“Cllr Davies is a well known and respected figure across local government. He is hugely experienced, particularly in terms of his previous role as WLGA Education Spokesperson. His leadership is fully supported by all political parties in the Association.”
Two other key nominations were also agreed during the meeting; Councillor Derek Vaughan (Neath Port Talbot), Leader of the Labour Group and former WLGA Leader who was nominated as Deputy Leader and Councillor Meryl Gravell (Carmarthenshire) re-elected as WLGA Presiding Officer.
Also, mirroring the Welsh Assembly Government’s portfolios, the WLGA Spokespersons have been elected as:
Cllr Russell Roberts (Lab), Improvement and Public services (involves a London role with the IDEA)
Cllr Lindsay Whittle (Plaid) - Social Justice and Community Safety
Cllr Rodney Berman (Lib Dem) - Finance and Resources
Cllr Meryl Gravell (Ind) - Health and social services
Cllr Peter Fox (Con) - Lifelong Learning and Skills
Cllr Chris Holley (Lib Dem) - Regeneration and Europe
Cllr Michael Jones (Ind) - Rural Affairs and Deputy Finance spokesperson
Cllr Aled Roberts (Lib Dem) - Environment, Sustainability and Housing
Cllr Bob Wellington (Lab) - Transportation, Planning and Networks
Cllr Dyfed Edwards (Plaid) - Leisure, Welsh language and Tourism
Cllr Gordon Kemp (Con) - Employment and Workforce
Cllr Keith Evans (Ind) - Regulatory Services and Consumer Affairs
Cllr Bob Bright (Lab) - Committee of the Regions
Notes to Editor
Councillor John Davies (Pembrokeshire County Council) has been elected as WLGA leader. The Leader is constitutionally drawn from the Association’s largest political group which is the Independent Group.
For more information contact: Natasha Weeks