MPs pay
I firmly agree with those who say that in the middle of a pandemic, when thousands are losing their jobs and seeing their income cut that it is entirely inappropriate for Members of Parliament to receive a pay rise. Neither the Government nor Members of Parliament set either the level of parliamentary salaries or the […]
Coronavirus response
The Government’s approach for preventing a comprehensive national lockdown is to work closely with local authorities to enact and enforce local restrictions if an increase in cases indicates that to be the best cause of action. While relaxations of restrictions over recent months have been most welcome, it is disappointing that despite the enormous sacrifices […]
BBC regional coverage
Grahame Morris Labour, Easington What recent discussions he has had with Ofcom on the BBC’s compliance with its statutory duties on local and regional news and political coverage for the English regions. Link to this speechIn context Individually Tweet Share (Citation: HC Deb, 24 September 2020, c1117) John Whittingdale Minister of State The BBC charter requires the BBC to serve audiences across […]
Local newspapers
Mr Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi (Slough) (Lab) What steps his Department is taking to support local, independent newspapers during the covid-19 outbreak. (906489) The Minister for Media and Data (Mr John Whittingdale) The Government recognise the vital importance of local and regional newspapers, particularly during this pandemic. That is why we designated journalists as key workers […]
TV Licenses: Over 75s Concessions
Gerald Jones (Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney) (Lab) What plans the Government has to reintroduce the TV licence concession for people aged over 75. (906485) The Minister for Media and Data (Mr John Whittingdale) The Government remain disappointed by the decision of the BBC to restrict the over-75 concession to those on pension credit. However, the […]
Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year
John Whittingdale MP was presented in Parliament with a piece of artwork of the Hythe Quay in Maldon as a celebration of the local area. The piece, by Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year finalist Brian Ramsey, was donated by Sky to mark the launch of Sky Arts as a free-to-air channel. John said: […]
Visit to Plume Academy
John Whittngdale visited the Plume Academy in Maldon. In the last few years under strong leadership from the Head iPlume Academy has transformed. With 1700 pupils it is already the third biggest school in Essex and is likely soon to become the biggest. It is rated Good by Ofsted and in the first week back […]
Tribute to PC Andrew Harper
John Whittingdale was honoured to join Chief Constable and officers of Essex Police to pay tribute to PC Andrew Harper On 15 August 2019, 28-year-old police constable Andrew Harper was killed near Sulhamstead, Berkshire, England, whilst in the line of duty. Harper and a fellow officer were responding to a report of burglary, after which Harper was […]
Full Fibre broadband for Maldon
Like many other residents, I have been working from home in Maldon during lockdown and have relied on a fast broadband connection. It is excellent news that homes in Maldon are now to be upgraded to Full Fibre to the Premises which will result in even faster and more reliable speeds. Openreach is announcing plans […]
Face masks now required in shops.
Great initiative by new Mayor of Maldon distributing masks in High Street to shoppers I agree that it is vital to balance the need to restrict the spread of the virus without infringing on civil liberties, while allowing the restoration of economic and social life. My colleagues in Government have made a judgement that the […]