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.

Royal Albert Hall Bill

Sir John Whittingdale supports the Royal Albert Hall, as a theatre-goer. He highlights its historical significance and emphasises the importance of securing its future.

Education Questions

Sir John Whittingdale questions Ministers on funding for SEND pupils, the pace of nuclear investment, and security threats from Iran, seeking clarity on government commitments and operational details.

Iran-Israel Conflict

John Whittingdale compares Iran to Russia, asking the Foreign Secretary if the UK should support Israel in the same way it supports Ukraine, given Iran’s attacks on British soil.

Nuclear Power Investment

John Whittingdale asks whether a third nuclear power station at Bradwell-on-Sea remains possible, suggesting it could instead host a small modular reactor, pressing the Secretary of State for clarification.

Legal Aid Agency: Cyber-security Incident

John Whittingdale challenges the Minister on politicising the cyber-attack, pressing for clarity on perpetrators and whether wider government security checks are underway to identify further vulnerabilities.

National Security Act 2023: Charges

John Whittingdale highlights threats to Iran International and BBC Persian journalists, urging Ministers to visit and reinforce that intimidation of media organisations and their families is unacceptable.

Avian Influenza

John Whittingdale warns avian influenza threatens the poultry industry and urges vaccination of seasonal turkeys, pressing the Minister to follow France’s approach to protect producers.

Victory in Europe and Victory over Japan: 80th Anniversary

John Whittingdale raises concern over the Imperial War Museum’s decision to close its Victoria and George Cross gallery, pressing the Minister to encourage reconsideration of the move.

Trade Negotiations

John Whittingdale welcomes the India trade deal and raises US film tariffs; Douglas Alexander agrees to relay concerns to Lord Mandelson.

Iranian Media Freedom

Sir John Whittingdale highlights threats to journalists at Iran International and BBC Persian, urging the Minister to defend media freedom and consider visiting Iran International to reinforce this commitment.

Ukraine Update

Sir John Whittingdale asks the Secretary of State to confirm increased military support for Ukraine and intensified efforts to counter Russian disinformation following the missile attack on Sumy.

Copyright Protection and AI

Sir John Whittingdale asks the Secretary of State to ensure that AI regulation negotiations with the US do not weaken UK copyright protections, safeguarding creative and news media industries.