William Graham (Assembly Member for South Wales East) addressed a meeting concerning local government reorganisation.

He highlighted the confusion created by Welsh Government abdication of responsibility for this issue.

"They have instructed councils to submit their proposals for voluntary mergers, but appear to reject those mergers that were not identified in the recommendations from the Williams Commission; then added to the confusion by stating they were open to an option of just six councils in Wales".

 "I believe that this matter needs to be referred to the Boundary Commission. There are issues such as the number of electors per councillor and addressing existing anomalies that need to be determined".

 "This will prevent a 'rush to merge' based upon a re-organisation model that no one accepts".

 "We need to preserve individual identities of the councils, especially those who have been recognised for their innovation, such as Monmouthshire - an exemplary small council.