Lloyd George statue unveiling today

Oct 25 2007 by Tomos Livingstone, Western Mail

THE only Welshman to have been Prime Minister takes his place alongside Churchill and Mandela today, when a statue to David Lloyd George is unveiled opposite the Houses of Parliament.

The statue, designed by Welsh sculptor Professor Glynn Williams, has been the focus of a long-running campaign by Lloyd George’s admirers, who feel the Liberal leader’s contribution to politics is under- valued.

The campaign was given a major boost in 2005 when businessman Stan Thomas donated £200,000 of the £323,000 needed to build the monument.

Mr Thomas said at the time that he wanted to see a permanent reminder of “the great Welsh statesman” on display in Parliament Square.

Lloyd George was Prime Minister between 1916-22 and led Britain during World War I. As well as his wartime leadership, he is remembered as a social reformer and as one of the great orators in the House of Commons – as well as being a highly colourful figure.

Prof Williams said, “It’s been a long time in the making, but it’s there now.” The bronze statue is more than 10ft tall, and stands on Welsh slate.