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.

Labelling Reforms

Sir John supports clearer animal welfare food labelling, calling for greater transparency so consumers can make informed choices and British farmers are not undercut by lower-standard imports.

Public Order Act

Sir John supports peaceful protest but says any Public Order Act changes affecting life sciences must be justified, balanced and protect both animal welfare standards and the UK’s ability to deliver vital medical research.

WASPI Campaign

Sir John urges the Government to bring clarity and a fair resolution to the WASPI compensation review, stressing the need for trust, accountability and timely decisions for women affected.

Social Media Ban

Sir John recognises growing harms from social media use among children, supports stronger enforcement of existing laws, and says technology companies must be held accountable before considering a statutory ban for under-16s.

Nuclear Regulatory Review

Sir John says energy infrastructure and nature protection must go hand in hand, and will scrutinise the Nuclear Regulatory Review to ensure reforms do not weaken environmental safeguards or commitments to wildlife and habitats.

Digital ID

Sir John opposes mandatory digital ID, backing voluntary tools only with offline alternatives and warning compulsory systems risk undermining privacy, liberty and public trust.

Maldon Banking Hub

Sir John welcomes plans for a temporary banking hub in Maldon, improving access to cash and basic services, while continuing to press for a permanent, centrally located High Street facility.

Page Turning Ceremony

Sir John took part in the House of Commons page-turning ceremony for the Book of Remembrance, honouring those who gave their lives in service and upholding Parliament’s longstanding tradition of national remembrance.

Asda Grants

Sir John welcomes Asda’s local community support, with grants awarded to South Woodham Evangelical Church and South Woodham Ferrers Village Hall, and encourages organisations to apply for future funding opportunities through 2026.

Local Roads

Sir John welcomes Essex County Council’s ‘green’ rating for road maintenance and increased highways investment, while acknowledging ongoing defects and pledging to continue raising residents’ concerns about road conditions in Maldon.

Connexin digital

Sir John highlights plans for new Connexin digital infrastructure across Maldon and surrounding wards, supporting smart services and connectivity, with some residents invited to host home gateways to expand coverage.

Royal Mail

Sir John raises concerns over declining Royal Mail services in Maldon, citing missed delivery targets, rising stamp prices and proposed reforms, and urges parliamentary scrutiny to protect reliable, affordable postal access for residents.