Rt Hon Sir John Whittingdale OBE MP

Member of Parliament for Maldon

House of Commons Speeches & Parliamentary Questions

This page brings together speeches, statements, and parliamentary questions delivered in the House of Commons by Sir John Whittingdale OBE MP. Entries are presented chronologically and include both oral contributions in the Chamber and written questions submitted as part of the formal parliamentary process.

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.

Sovereignty of the Chagos Islands

Sir John challenged the Government on the Chagos Islands treaty, raising strategic, nuclear, environmental, and financial concerns, emphasizing that many answers so far fail to safeguard UK interests.

Ukraine Questions

Highlighting Russia’s continued attacks on Ukraine, Sir John urged stronger sanctions and increased support for Ukraine, emphasizing that Putin currently shows no interest in a ceasefire.

Middle East Questions

Expressing concern over civilian casualties in Gaza, Sir John highlighted that at least 200 journalists have died, urging the Israeli Government to prevent further targeting and uphold international standards.

Civilian Death in Gaza

Sir John expressed shock at civilian deaths in Gaza and urged that international media, including the BBC and Reuters, be granted full access to verify the situation on the ground.

Education Questions

Highlighting Essex’s rising demand for education, health and care assessments, Sir John questioned delays caused by staffing shortages, and pressed the Minister on government plans to meet these needs.

Russian Citizens Granted UK Visas

Sir John asked the Home Secretary for visa statistics, specifically how many Russian citizens received UK visas each year over the past five years, prompting guidance on published data sources.