MP for a week – why not see how you would do?
MP For A Week drops you into the shoes of a backbench MP. And the job, as they say, is what you make of it. Will you debate the governments controversial Homework Bill or help Mrs Billingsley sort her rubbish collection? Want to hear what a climate change lobbyist has to say, or ask the […]
July Update
I am very pleased that Covid restrictions have now been lifted. It is a huge step along the Government’s roadmap and, after such a difficulty year, it is a decision that I am sure will be welcomed by many. The decision to introduce such restrictions was very difficult and one that I and my ministerial […]
June Update
I understand the reasons why the Prime Minister made the difficult decision on 14 June to extend the period of current Covid restrictions until 19 July. Whilst I appreciate that there will be some disappointment that Stage 4 will come a little later than had hoped, we cannot risk the virus – especially its more transmissible […]
World Press Freedom Day Debate
John was called to respond on behalf of the Government to a Westminster Hall debate on this year’s World Press Freedom Day. Press freedom in the UK and across the world has been an issue John has been closely involved with both during his time in government and as a backbencher. The debate was therefore a […]
UQ on BBC, Bashir & Diana Interview
On Monday 24 May, John was in the chamber in his role as minister at the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to answer an Urgent Question submitted by the Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, Julian Knight, about the outcome of the independent inquiry conducted by Lord Dyson into Martin […]
HRH The Duke of Edinburgh
I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Duke of Edinburgh. Our country owes him a great debt: for the tremendous support which he gave to HM Queen, but also for his leadership in the many areas in which he achieved so much – for young people, for conservation, for science and engineering […]
Budget 2021 Reaction
The Budget today is fantastic news for all those people and businesses who were worried how they would get through the next few months until they are able to get fully back to work. Many local firms in Maldon have been in contact with me over the last few weeks asking for an extension […]
Vaccine Update
It is very welcome news that the number of Covid cases in Maldon continues to fall with 67 testing positive in the last 7 days, bringing the rate per 100,000 down to 147.9. With the R rate in the East of England now 0.7 to 0.9, this number should go on falling as long as we […]
Essex Re-enters Lockdown
I fully understand that the announcement of a further national lockdown from today is another bitter blow for many who have already endured months of restrictions causing separation from family and friends, loss of income and cancellation of plans. In particular, I recognise that the return to remote learning for those in education will be […]
Tier 4 Statement
I know how distressing it was for people in Maldon and Chelmsford to hear that new Tier 4 restrictions were being imposed on London and the Home Counties from Sunday morning. In addition, the withdrawal of the five day relaxation for Christmas is another huge blow to families, many of whom have already been unable […]