Former Welsh housing minister found dead

Mr Sargeant, 49, had faced what he called “shocking and distressing” allegations about his personal conduct. He leaves a wife and two children.

He was cabinet secretary for communities and children until Friday, with responsibility for housing policy in the country, having also served in the role in 2013.

The Welsh Assembly has been suspended this afternoon.

Carwyn Jones, first minister for the Welsh Government, said: “Carl was a friend as well as a colleague and I am shocked and deeply saddened by his death.”

In a statement issued on Friday, Mr Sargeant said: “I have written to the general secretary of Welsh Labour requesting an urgent investigation into these allegations in order to allow me to clear my name.

“Given the nature of these allegations, I agreed with the first minister that it was right that I stand aside from cabinet today. I look forward to returning to government once my name has been cleared.”

He was a Labour assembly member for Alyn and Deeside since 2003 and a cabinet member since 2007. Welsh Labour had suspended him from the party following the allegations.

In his political career, Mr Sargeant had campaigned heavily against domestic violence.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn wrote on Twitter: “I’m deeply shocked to hear of the terrible news about Carl Sargeant. My thoughts and profound sympathy are with his family and friends.”

Mark Pierce, superintendent at North Wales Police, said: “At approximately 11.30am today, Tuesday 7th November, North Wales Police were called to a report that the body of a man had been found at an address in Connah’s Quay.

“The man has been formally identified as local AM Carl Sargeant. His next of kin have been informed and police are supporting the family.

“North Wales Police are not treating his death as suspicious and the matter has been referred to HM Coroner. The family request that their privacy is respected at this sad time.”