People are “disgusted” that Radnorshire is not to be included in the new Senedd constituency of Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd, says James Evans.

The Brecon and Radnorshire MS asked at the Senedd for a statement from the Cabinet Secretary with responsibility for the Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales.

He said that many people in Radnorshire are disgusted that the Commission has decided not to include Radnorshire in the new constituency of Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd.

The constituency is one of 16 that will come into being following next year’s Senedd elections. Each of them will be represented by six MSs.

The new Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd constituency will combine the current Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe UK parliamentary constituency with Neath and Swansea East

Mr Evans said that is disheartening to him as a “proud Radnorshire man”.

He told MSs: “Radnorshire was established in the 1500s. The Commission seems to be riding roughshod over local history - something that I don't stand for and the residents of Radnorshire don't stand for either.”

Mr Evans asked for a statement on the issue so that MSs can question decisions and how the Commission has come up with these “ridiculous proposals”.

The Trefnydd, Jane Hutt, said the Commission held more than one consultation over the boundaries of the new constituencies and representations were made.

She told Mr Evans: “They came back with draft proposals and then more consultation before coming to their final decision. Your points have been made and aired in the Chamber today.”

Speaking after the session, Mr Evans said: “As a proud Radnorshire man myself, this is very disheartening to see given the county was founded in 1536 and is a key part of what gives Mid Wales its rural identity. The Boundary Commission is seemingly keen to erase much of our local history.”