Welsh Conservative Assembly Member, David Melding, has been awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in the 2018 New Year’s Honours list.
The former Secretary of State for Wales, Cheryl Gillan MP, has also received a Damehood.
A proud Welshman, David has been a member of the Welsh Parliament since its inception in 1999, and a leading figure at the heart of the devolution process.
Before his election to the National Assembly he was a member of the Conservative Research Department, manager of the Carers National Association in Wales and a former Deputy Director of the Welsh Centre for International Affairs. David boasts more than three decades of campaigning for the Welsh Conservative Party having also stood in the 1997 General Election in Cardiff Central.
During his time at the Assembly, David has held many roles, including as the Welsh Conservatives' director of policy, responsible for producing the Welsh election manifestos in 2003, 2007 and 2011. He is currently the Welsh Conservative Shadow Secretary for Environment and Housing, where he has led the fight against the abolition of Right-to-Buy in Wales.
During the Fourth Assembly, David was elected and served in the prestigious role of Deputy Presiding Officer. His contribution to politics has also extended to the foundation of the Welsh Think Tank, Gorwel.
Dame Cheryl Gillan is the Member of Parliament (MP) for the constituency of Chesham and Amersham in Buckinghamshire. She was the Shadow Welsh Secretary from 2005–10 and the Secretary of State for Wales from 2010 to 2012. As of 2015 she is the longest serving female Conservative MP - a Member since 1992.
Commenting on the awards, leader of the Welsh Conservatives, Andrew RT Davies, said:
“David has been a shining example of how to conduct yourself in public life.
“Widely regarded as one of the National Assembly’s most able members, David's superb record, political longevity and steadfast commitment to public service make him thoroughly deserving of formal recognition.
“His vast knowledge of constitutional affairs and championing of devolution has won him many plaudits, while he’s been vociferous on issues such as mental health and looked after children – long before they were viewed as fashionable causes.
“David’s contribution also stretches beyond politics, as an officer and volunteer with St John’s, while he is also a governor of long-standing at Headlands School in Penarth and Meadowbank Special School in Cardiff.
“It has been a pleasure to serve with David as regional members for South Wales Central and I’m sure people from right across the political spectrum will join in offering congratulations.”
"And hearty congratulations to Cheryl Gillan - a true blue and champion for both the Conservatives, Wales, the United Kingdom and her constituents. This is a thoroughly deserved honour reflective of her qualities as a person and politician."