Jimmy Lai Conviction
Sir John highlighted concerns for 78-year-old British journalist Jimmy Lai, asking the Foreign Secretary to meet his son and take further action to secure his release.
UK-based AI firms
Having met with UK-based AI firms holding creative industry licenses, Sir John asks Culture Minister to engage with British companies as well as bigger firms, supporting responsible innovation and licensing.
G20 and Ukraine
Sir John asked the Prime Minister whether US-brokered Ukraine peace proposals must be made acceptable to Russia, stressing the need for maximum pressure through military support, sanctions, and frozen assets.
Sir John Whittingdale MP speaks on BBC Panorama Edit
Sir John addressed the BBC Panorama Edit, contributing his views on the programme’s content and implications, ahead of the charter renewal he urges tougher enforcement of independence.
International Baccalaureate: Funding in State Schools
Sir John raised constituents’ concerns about the potential withdrawal of the IB funding at Anglo European School in Ingatestone, urging the Minister to protect access, social mobility and educational choice in state schools.
UK-Türkiye Typhoon Export Deal
Sir John questioned the Minister on the Türkiye Typhoon jet deal, asking whether Turkey’s S-400 system poses a risk to UK technology and seeking reassurance on security safeguards.
Local Government reform
Sir John asks Government whether local government reforms in Essex will devolve more powers to town and parish councils, ensuring decisions remain responsive to local residents despite larger authorities.
Questions on Mandelson’s Ambassadorship
Sir John criticised Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador, highlighting failures in vetting, unanswered questions from the Foreign Affairs Committee, and the need for accountability and lessons for future appointments.
Jimmy Lai’s Imprisonment
Highlighting Jimmy Lai’s five-year imprisonment in China, Sir John urged the Minister to press for his release and take all possible action to protect the deteriorating health of the British citizen.
Live Facial Recognition in Policing
Sir John questioned the Home Secretary on the use of live facial recognition by police, highlighting the lack of a legal framework and asking when national guidelines will be established.