Commenting on the launch of a campaign seeking a referendum for a directly-elected Mayor for Cardiff, Shadow Local Government Minister Janet Finch-Saunders AM said:

“Welsh Conservatives have long highlighted the beneficial role directly elected Mayors could offer to communities in Wales. 

“The major conurbations of Wales – and namely the capital of the Cardiff - could benefit from a clearly identifiable, accountable elected figure who acts as a local champion.”

For a referendum to take place, 24,657 verified signatures will need to sign a petition within a six-month period. In Wales, a petition must be signed by 10 per cent of the local electorate - as opposed to only 5 per cent in England.

Leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies, added:

“An elected Mayor could act as a game changer for Cardiff – and we’ve seen many communities across the UK benefit from this. Crucially, the decision should be a matter for local people.

“The introduction of a directly-elected mayor should be subject to a referendum. Sadly, under Labour in Wales, measures to trigger a referendum here are more burdensome than in England.”