Evan Matthew Richards (17 November 1821 – 21 August 1880) was a Welsh Liberal politician who represented Cardiganshire in the British House of Commons from 1868 until his defeat at the general election of 1874.

[4] His success in defeating John Vaughan, the Conservative candidate was alluded to the influence of the Pryse family of Gogerddan, leading landowners in the county.

[8] Also, Lloyd had also not been involved in conflict with his tenantry, and his candidacy would not, therefore, attract the same degree of opposition as would face one of the more prominent landowners.

[9] Lloyd's candidacy was kept a closely guarded secret until nomination day, although his leaflets and campaign literature had been printed.

[9] The Liberal leaders in the county were unaware that they would be opposed until Lloyd's address, in which he described himself as a Liberal-Conservative, was published the morning of the nomination day.