Reform’s leader in Wales has stood down after being arrested over the weekend on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behaviour. Dan Thomas was released on bail without charge and insists that he has ‘done nothing wrong’. But in a sign of possible further trouble ahead for Nigel Farage’s party, he said he did not want ‘coming headlines’ to distract from Reform’s work in the Senedd.
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.
‘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.’
Commenting on the arrest, Gwent Police said: ‘On Sunday 13 September 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.’
Thomas, a former Tory councillor, is expected to be replaced by his deputy, Helen Jenner.
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