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Reform UK’s leader in Wales has resigned with immediate effect after being arrested on suspicion of assault and engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour.
Dan Thomas, who had been the leader of the opposition in the Senedd, will continue to serve as a Reform MS for the Casnewydd Islwyn constituency, while on police bail.
In a statement, Mr Thomas said: “Over the weekend, I was reported to the police and was released without charge.
“I stress that I have done nothing wrong, but I do not want the coming headlines to be a distraction from the fantastic work our Senedd team is doing in holding this government to account.”
A Gwent Police spokesperson said: “On Sunday September 13, a 45-year-old man, from the Aberbargoed area, was arrested on suspicion of assault and engaging in controlling/coercive behaviour.
“He has been bailed pending further enquiries.”
Mr Thomas, a former Conservative leader of Barnet Council in London, was named as Reform’s Welsh leader earlier this year, before May’s elections.
He said: “It has been the honour of my life to have been the leader of Reform Wales and see this party go from zero to 34 elected members and become the largest opposition group in Welsh history.
“With deep regret, I am now standing down from this position due to personal reasons.
“I will continue to serve my constituents in Casnewydd Islwyn and will fully back whoever the group selects as its next leader.”
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