Wales should have its own order of chivalry for a devolved age, a Tory AM said yesterday.

David Melding said it was time to reform the Order of the British Empire and introduce an Order of St David for outstanding achievements by Welsh people.

"I don't think it would be lost on anyone in this chamber that we no longer have an empire,’’ he said during a short debate in the Senedd.

Although they would still be handed out by the Queen, Mr Melding said Welsh honours should be based on nominations from the First Minister instead of the Prime Minister.

He suggested a Welsh honours list could be announced on St David's Day and awarded at Royal ceremonies around Wales.

Knights and other ranks of chivalry could be abandoned under a system that "reflects our deep commitment to democratic principles’’.

"If you are recognised you are recognised with that honour and one rank of honour.

"I believe an honours system adds great colour to the national life and gives recognition to achievements and services of our citizens.’’