My Background
I was born in Bedford and raised and educated locally before attending Oxford University, where I earned my BA and I later completed an MBA at Harvard Business School.
Real World Experience before becoming an MP
Before entering Parliament, I was a partner at the strategy consulting firm LEK Consulting and a founding partner at Investcorp's venture capital group.
My business career includes helping start numerous small businesses and working in Australia, the United States, the Philippines, and South Korea. Between 2017 and 2019, I chaired an educational technology company.
My passion for creativity, innovation, and the potential of start-ups and small businesses drives my commitment to putting this broad experience to work in Parliament.
My Roles in Politics
I served as the Member of Parliament for Bedford from 2010 to 2017 and was elected as the MP for North East Bedfordshire in December 2019 and re-elected as the MP for North Bedfordshire in 2024. I have been a member of the Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Select Committee and, briefly, the Public Accounts Committee. I served as Economic Secretary to the Treasury from July to October 2022 and from July to October 2024 I was the Interim Chairman of the Conservative Party. I am currently the Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury.
An Accessible Member of Parliament
I take the concerns of local residents seriously, and I believe it is essential to understand your views to provide effective representation in Parliament. In the December 2019- May 2024 Parliament, I held 220 in-person and online/telephone surgeries, averaging four per month, along with 24 Town Halls since Covid restrictions were lifted and dealt with over 30,000 casework, policy, and campaign queries. I continue to dedicate myself to addressing key issues affecting our community.
A Strong Local Voice
One of my significant campaigns has been about the East West Rail project. I have consistently advocated for the interests and concerns of residents, pressing for the best outcomes regarding environmental impact and community benefits. I have opposed the plans in their current form, recognising that the consultation held by East West Rail was neither comprehensive nor transparent. I remain committed to keeping residents informed and engaged on this critical issue.
Achieving Real Change on Matters that Concern You
In May 2024, a major milestone was achieved with the passing of the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024. This legislation, which I championed following concerns raised with me by constituents, tackles unfair practices in freehold estate management charges, providing more rights and protections for homeowners.
I also introduced the Hare Coursing Bill, targeting the cruel and illegal practice of hare coursing. This bill received strong support and underscores our commitment to animal welfare and rural crime prevention. The Government adopted my proposals in full, incorporating them into the Police Crime Sentencing and Courts Act 2022.
Recognising the importance of sustainable development, I have been actively involved in discussions and actions concerning solar farm proposals in North Bedfordshire. My focus has been on balancing the need for renewable energy with the preservation of our beautiful countryside, ensuring that local voices are heard in planning processes.
Addressing environmental concerns, I have worked on issues related to wastewater overflows and flooding. After meeting with affected constituents, I engaged with local authorities and stakeholders including the Mayor of Bedford Borough and the Leader of Central Bedfordshire to find solutions that protect our communities from pollution and flood risks. This led to proposing the formation of a North Bedfordshire Water Management Alliance, uniting Anglian Water, local Drainage Boards, the Environment Agency, Parish Councils, and local environmental groups to create a coherent, shared action plan.
Through these efforts, I strive to make a tangible difference in North Bedfordshire, ensuring that your needs and priorities are represented and acted upon both locally and in Parliament.