David Chadwick has confirmed that he is putting himself forward to become the next leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, setting out a vision centred on economic opportunity, enterprise and a renewed sense of ambition for Wales.

The announcement follows Jane Dodds MS's decision to step down after nine years leading the party, with her successor due to formally take office on November 16.

35-year-old Chadwick, who was elected to Parliament in 2024 and already serves as the Liberal Democrats' Wales Spokesperson in Westminster, has outlined his ambition to build a stronger Welsh economy, improve public services and create a country where more people have the opportunity to succeed.

At the heart of his vision is the belief that Wales must move beyond simply managing its existing challenges and instead focus on generating more wealth, with economic growth driving better jobs, higher wages, stronger public services and thriving communities.He has argued that improving Wales' public services cannot be separated from tackling the wider economic challenges facing the country, including poverty, poor housing, insecure employment and a lack of opportunity.

Chadwick who is the Welsh Liberal Democrat MP for Brecon, Radnor and Cwm Tawe, wants to see Wales become one of the best places in Britain to start and grow a business, with greater support for entrepreneurs, investment in transport and infrastructure, and a renewed focus on education, skills and innovation.

A particular priority will be improving opportunities for younger generations, with Chadwick warning that too many young people feel they must leave Wales to find rewarding careers, earn decent wages or achieve the standard of living enjoyed by previous generations.

Chadwick has acknowledged the scale of the challenge facing the Welsh Liberal Democrats following recent electoral setbacks, but insisted the party must stop thinking and acting like a minor party if it is to rebuild its support and once again become a significant force in Welsh politics.

Chadwick is expected to set out further details of his political vision and plans for the party when he's expected to formally take over the leadership on November 16.

He said: "Wales is a country with enormous potential. We have talented young people, innovative businesses and communities with the ambition to achieve great things. But too often, that ambition isn't matched by the opportunities available to people.

"I want to see a Wales where hard work is rewarded, where businesses have the confidence to invest and grow, and where young people can build successful lives without feeling they have to leave Wales to get ahead.

David Chadwick
David Chadwick has confirmed that he is putting himself forward to become the next leader of the Welsh Liberal Democrats, setting out a vision centred on economic opportunity, enterprise and a renewed sense of ambition for Wales. (Welsh Lib Dems)

"Economic growth and strong public services go hand in hand. By supporting enterprise, creating better jobs and raising living standards, we can build the prosperity needed to improve the services we all depend on.

"That is the kind of optimistic, ambitious liberalism I believe in. A politics that believes in people's potential and gives them the freedom and opportunities to succeed.

"I want to rebuild the Welsh Liberal Democrats as a confident political force, rooted in our communities and capable of helping shape the future of Wales.

"I'll be setting out more about my vision over the coming weeks, because I believe that for Wales, and for the Welsh Liberal Democrats, our best days can still lie ahead."