Sir Roger Gale
Member of Parliament for Herne Bay and Sandwich (including West Thanet)
Press Releases 2025
Roger regularly issues press releases about current topics. We have included a selection of them here which we hope will be of interest to you.
13th November 2025
I questioned the Police Minster who has announced plans to scrap the current set up we have with Police and Crime Commissioners (PCC).
I want to pay tribute to our current PCC - Matthew Scott who has, year on year, managed to increase the number of police officers we have in Kent.
The Minister uses London as a prime example of what a Mayor can do to ‘help’ bring down and manage crime - yet I believe under Sadiq Khan this has been a disaster. In other areas with Mayoral PPCs the holders of the office are generally unelected Deputies not chosen by the voters.
I also wanted to understand how the model going forward will work, especially where areas do not have a Mayor to take on the role that PCCs undertake.
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11th November 2025
Today I commented on the statement to the House by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport that the edit used by the BBC Panorama documentary on Trumps speech was a travesty and deeply dishonest and represented a desperate lack of editorial control.
However, I do believe that the overwhelming majority of journalists employed by the BBC and independent television work faithfully and honestly to deliver the truth.
I therefore asked for the Secretary of State to resist the calls to destroy what is one of the jewels in our national crown.
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9th November 2025
Honoured to attend Remembrance events across the constituency today.
I began the day in Herne Bay, where there was an excellent turnout for the parade, led by the newly re-formed Air Cadets marching band at their first public event.
Then on to Minster, where Miss Minster kindly laid the Poppy wreath on my behalf, joined by the Minster Carnival Court and the Mayor of Armbouts-Cappel, Jean-Luc Darcourt, visiting with a delegation from our twin town in France.
This afternoon, I attended the service at Ware war memorial, remembering the fallen from Ware and Westmarsh, conducted by Rev. Caroline Turvey and attended by many local residents.
My thanks also to Cllr George Kup, who laid a wreath on my behalf in Birchington, and to Cadet Company Sergeant Major Jack Mitchell from Sir Roger Manwood’s School, who did so in Sandwich.
We will remember them.
1st November 2025
Good to join Scout leader Craig Nimmo, District Lead Volunteer Matt Sims and the Rev. Caroline Turvey to celebrate the eightieth anniversary of the 9th Ash Scout Group and a privilege to be invited to unveil their commemorate plaque.
Contrary to popular belief I did not know Robert Baden-Powell personally but my own association with scouting does go back more than seventy years to the time I was a member of the 1st Lilliput Sea Scout troop based at Poole harbour where, on Brownsea Island, the first scout camp was held in 1907.
Well done to 9th Ash and huge thanks to all of the volunteers who make the experience possible for so many young people.
31st October 2025
Huge thanks to the 250 people in Garlinge who braved the cold and turned out to vote for Kerry Boyd in the by-election yesterday.
Whilst it wasn’t enough, we increased our vote share by 10.6% - an achievement unmatched in other by-elections recently. This I believe is due to the fact we had a brilliant candidate in Kerry and a very hard working campaign team.
Garlinge (Thanet) Council By-Election Result:
RFM: 44.6% (New)
CON: 32.0% (+10.6)
LAB: 7.9% (-12.3)
GRN: 7.8% (-1.3)
LDM: 4.6% (New)
Ind: 3.1% (New)
No TI (-49.2) as previous.
29th October 2025
With NFU President Tom Bradshaw for the ‘This is Farming: Real People, Real Impact’ meeting in the House of Commons. Did you see the Countryfile Item on the impact of Labour’s Family Farm Tax on Sunday (26th October)? If not, catch it on BBC i-Player. The effect will devastate East Kent’s farmers.
At the same time the fields around Garlinge, Westgate and Birchington which grow bread making quality wheat are destined to be sold off for housing at the same time as construction workers are being laid off in Thanet and developers are halting work while unwanted houses remain unsold.
All of this makes a mockery of “sustainability”.
23rd October 2025
A useful meeting with the Patients Association to discuss patient choice in, particularly, elective surgery. It’s clear that not enough patients are aware of the choices that may be available to them.
This was followed with a meeting with the new CEO of the Kent and Medway Integrated Care Board, Adam Doyle, during which we discussed waiting times for GP appointments (far too long) access to NHS dentistry, waiting times for elective surgery, and children’s mental health services.
Welcome and good luck Adam - a lot of work to be done!
21st October 2025
I remain unashamedly supportive of the aviation and travel industries. Taken together they are worth thousands of jobs and millions of pounds to the UK economy.
Many of those jobs are already in East Kent and more will follow with the re-opening of Manston.
Aviation and the environment are not incompatible and I look forward to the day when hydrogen/electric aircraft are flying from a net zero carbon local airport. It can happen and I believe that it will happen.
The owners of Manston RSP, expect to be determining airspace requirements with the Civil Aviation Authority during November and December before then going out to public consultation in Ramsgate and Herne Bay in February next year.
8th October 2025
Kemi Badenoch’s speech was bold, clear and future-focused.
She spoke of tearing down barriers - from scrapping stamp duty to restoring responsibility in our public finances - with a vision rooted in fairness, growth and opportunity.
Her message was one of hope and possibility: Britain doesn’t have to accept stagnation. With courage and clarity, we can build a country where hard work pays off and the next generation can dream bigger.
1st October 2025
However strongly some people may feel about the actions of the Government of Israel in Gaza there is absolutely no justification for anti-semitic acts of terrorism here in the United Kingdom or indeed anywhere else in the world.
On this holy day of Yom Kippur I express my condolences, through my friends in the Orthodox and Reform synagogues in East Kent, to the Jewish Community and in particular to those who have lost family, loved ones and friends in the Manchester Synagogue attack.
26th September 2025
Digital ID Cards
My immediate response is that while I will, as always, study any proposed legislation with care I am not minded to support the mandatory introduction of such cards.
I cannot see that, aside from many other issues of concern, such cards will make any impact upon the employment of illegal migrants that they are designed to address. They have not done so in France, where ID cards are already mandatory and where an underground economy thrives, and there is no reason to suppose that ID cards would have any greater impact in the United Kingdom.
That said this is a complex and emotive issue and one that I believe deserves better than a knee jerk reaction. The substantive reply that I shall forward to all of those who are my constituents who have afforded me the courtesy of providing addresses and postcodes will, prior to any debate in the House, seek to address the matter more thoroughly.
15th September 2025
On Thursday 30th October, residents in Garlinge Ward will head to the polls in a by-election to elect your new councillor for Thanet District Council.
Our candidate, Kerry Boyd, has the experience, dedication, and deep community roots that Garlinge deserves.
Kerry previously served as your councillor from 2019–2023, where she chaired the Governance and Audit Committee, contributed to key scrutiny groups, and always worked hard to support local residents. She grew up in Garlinge, went to local schools, and has always been active in the community - from volunteering during the pandemic to mentoring young people and supporting local charities.
She has a clear plan to address the issues that truly matter to you.
That’s why I have no hesitation in asking the residents of Garlinge to vote for Kerry Boyd on Thursday 30th October.
15th September 2025
On Sunday morning I was on the BBC South East Politics show - I said that I was derided when I said that Johnson was politically a dead man walking.
I am saying now that Starmer is in the same situation: his credibility is shot and his political authority shattered.
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11th September 2025
Today I questioned the Minister of State for the Foreign Office on the Prime Ministers support for Mandelson. And how Mandelson’s relationship with Epstein whilst he was a Minister should be investigated by the Cabinet Office.
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9th September 2025
The beer and pub sector has contributed about £34 billion in gross value to the economy, pays some £17 billion in wages to a million employees many of whom are young people.
And yet pubs are closing at an alarming rate. That is why I joined Emma McClarkin, the CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, to stress the damage that increased energy costs, taxes and the rise in National Insurance Charges, tax and regulation are doing to a Great British Institution. Chancellor of the Exchequer, you have a budget coming up: I am supporting my local. Are you?
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5th September 2025
Yesterday in the Commons I asked the Leader of the House, if before the debate takes place next Tuesday on the Chagos Island deal - whether the estimates of the deal can be published to ensure there is full transparency on how much this deal will cost the taxpayers - my constituents.
I don’t deny that the Conservative administration started the discussion with Mauritius but we did not enter into a costly and unnecessary agreement that places our military security at risk!
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2nd September 2025
With the Chair of the Board of Trustees of the National Tremor Foundation, Kitty Reilly, in the House of Commons.
I have been an MP for 42 years and I had never heard of this, Essential Tremor, condition that affects about a million people in the UK.
There are only two centres in London and Liverpool for focussed ultrasound treatment and the procedure is capped at 150 patients a year. Once again we should surely be comparing the cost of treatment with the cost of non-treatment. Common sense provides the answer.
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2nd September 2025
Today in the chamber I asked the Foreign Secretary - after Putin refused to accept Presidents Trumps invitation to America to seek a ceasefire in Ukraine - if at next week’s visit to the United Nations he can call again on the United States to put real sanctions upon Russia.
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2nd September 2025
I share Cllr Cllr Kup's view - devolution reforms must deliver real benefits for local people: cost-effective governance, genuine accessibility for all who want to serve and strong local representation. If done properly, this is a once-in-a-generation chance to strengthen local democracy and make councils simpler, more effective and closer to the communities they serve.
It would be impossible to support a bill that does not realise that opportunity.
27th August 2025
Kent Wildlife Trust has joined forces with leading conservation organisations, community groups, and Sir Roger Gale MP to demand the withdrawal of National Grid’s Sea Link application.
Sea Link is a proposed £1.1bn subsea cable project linking Suffolk and Kent. But the current application is riddled with serious legal, procedural, and environmental failings – including:
Incomplete and inadequate ecological surveys
Factual errors, missing documentation, and inconsistent reporting
Failure to meet statutory consultation requirements
The project would impact two nationally and internationally protected wildlife sites: RSPB North Warren Nature Reserve, Suffolk and Kent Wildlife Trust’s Sandwich & Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve, Kent.
The flawed 500+ document submission places an unreasonable burden on communities, local authorities, and charities forced to cross-check material that should have been accurate from the start.
We support renewable energy and the UK’s transition to net zero – but it cannot come at the expense of wildlife, habitats, and public trust.
The coalition is urging the Examining Authority to reject this unfit application and require National Grid to resubmit only once it is legally, procedurally, and environmentally sound.
25th August 2025
Congratulations to Josie, Tom and the extraordinary team of volunteers who worked so hard to deliver the three day Preston Summerfest.
All the feedback says that the lineup was without exception excellent, that the children’s entertainment was wonderful and that the hundreds of visitors who were clever enough to secure early bird tickets not only had a great time but helped this not-for-profit event to raise tens of thousands of pounds for the charities that the Summerfest is supporting.
Many thanks, also, to the local businesses who so generously sponsored the festival and made the weekend possible.
24th August 2025
Delighted to welcome vegetable farming back to Quex Park after a 25-year absence.
Congratulations to Jack Scott, whose passion, energy, and vision are breathing new life into this vital part of our rural economy. His commitment to sustainable farming - using organic methods, cutting out single-use plastics, and encouraging biodiversity. This is exactly the kind of forward-looking approach we should be proud of here in Thanet.
It is also heartening to see a focus on education and opportunities for young people, ensuring the next generation can learn where their food comes from and perhaps be inspired to pursue careers in horticulture and agriculture.
My thanks and congratulations once again to Jack and all involved in this project - I look forward to seeing Quex Park Vegetables in our shops and restaurants.
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15th August 2025
I am pleased to have received notice from the Nursing and Midwifery Council that the Midwifery Program, in my view wholly unnecessarily removed from Canterbury Christ Church University, is to recommence with effect from September 2025.
I have great confidence in the medical courses offered at Christ Church which I hope and believe will help to relieve some of the shortages of Doctors, Nurses and Midwives that we currently experience in East Kent.
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14th August 2025
To those of my young constituents who have received their A-level results that they have hoped for and expected congratulations:
To those who this morning are facing disappointment do not be downhearted.
From my own experience I know that life is full of opportunities and there is a lot of advice and guidance available.
My office, as are many others, is there to help if needed.
Good luck and well done to all of you.
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12th August 2025
I worked with Biddy Baxter on Blue Peter following an attachment from Radio 4 Today to the subsequently award-winning Multi Coloured Swap Shop.
The Matriarch of BBC Children’s Television was fiercely demanding of both herself and those working with her. She attracted sometimes justified criticism as an autocrat but produced one of the most iconic programmes on broadcast TV.
I learned a great deal about live television from my experience with Biddy and I regard it as a privilege to have done my time on Blue Peter.
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8th August 2025
Yesterday morning, I had the pleasure of speaking on BBC Radio Kent about the critical importance of our farming industry.
Farming is not just about what's on our plate; it's the bedrock of our rural economy and a key part of our national heritage. Our farmers work tirelessly to feed the nation, and we must ensure they have the support and recognition they deserve.
I am committed to championing our local farmers and doing what I can to make this government realise how important our farmers and farmland are.
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25th July 2025
I am deeply disappointed, personally and on behalf of thousands of aviation fans, that it has become necessary to cancel this year’s charity fundraising air show over Manston.
I fully appreciate that in the light of relatively recent and tragic accidents at such shows the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has found it necessary to review regulations and tighten precautions in the interests of public safety.
What is particularly frustrating is that agreement has now been reached between the CAA and the Flying Display Committee - but without sufficient time to meet the requirements for this year’s event.
I hope very much both that further events will be planned and executed and also that news of the development plans for the reopening of the operational airfield will be forthcoming soon.
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24th July 2025
The Prime Minister says that the suffering in Gaza is “unthinkable and unspeakable“.
The government has had weeks since four Privy Councillors - of which I was one - sought to deliver a letter to Downing Street calling for the recognition of the State of Palestine and the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
In the intervening weeks we have heard a number of handwringing statements - most recently from the Foreign Secretary himself this week - about starvation in Gaza but to date the Government of the United Kingdom has instigated no action.
It is beyond time that we cut ourselves loose from Trump’s apron strings, demonstrate some moral fibre and took an international lead against the weaponising of food and water and the genocide, by a government that no longer has the support of the Israeli people, perpetrated against the children and women of Gaza.
Action. Not words. Now.
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23rd July 2025
I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as an acting Deputy Speaker during the past few weeks but, for now, I hang up my tail suit and after the summer recess will return to my place on the back benches.
I look forward to holding the Labour government to account once again - asking the difficult but necessary questions on, but not limited to, the Planning Reform Bill, the SeaLink Project and how we can protect our agriculture land and support our farmers.
It will also be good to be able to seek to challenge the Prime Minister on his growing number of handbrake turns and his Chancellor's broken promises.
I hope the Labour front bench haven’t missed my interventions too much: I'm looking forward to getting back into the fray come September!
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8th July 2025
As President of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Cyprus welcoming the Minister for Europe, Marilena Raouna to the Annual Parliamentary Meeting in the House of Commons.
This month marks the fifty first anniversary of the unlawful invasion and occupation of the northern part of the island by Turkey.
With Cyprus playing a key role in humanitarian support of Gaza and as a trusted ally in support of UK and US defence in the region it is beyond time that a settlement of this ‘frozen conflict’ based on United Nations resolutions was reached.
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4th July 2025
It has been a year since I was elected to be the Member of Parliament for Herne Bay and Sandwich (with West Thanet). That election was a hard fought campaign that my small dedicated team saw us through.
In the last year it’s been a privilege to get to know the new areas of my constituency, attending many different events across Sandwich, Sturry, Herne Bay and West Thanet. My team and I are working on literally hundreds of constituents’ cases helping where we can and to the best of our combined abilities.
I look forward to seeing what the rest of this term will hold and will continue to work with and for my constituents
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27th June 2025
To relieve pressures on the system I have once again been recruited as an Acting Deputy Speaker.
By Order of the House I shall continue in this role until the Summer Recess and I expect to return to the back benches when the House sits again in September. In the interim I am prohibited by convention from voting or engaging in other partisan activities. This will not in any way inhibit my ability to handle constituency casework and neither will it prevent me from pursuing local issues such as, for example, Sealink/The Minster Marshes or the re-opening of Manston Airport.
It does mean, however, that I shall need to publish an omnibus June/July edition of “Gale`s Westminster View” once I have relinquished my temporary role and am relieved of the entirely proper restrictions placed upon my activities!
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20th June 2025
Today I presided, as an acting Deputy Speaker, over part of one of the most sensitive deliberations that the House of Commons has been required to undertake for many years.
Many constituents have made contact with me about this issue and while convention has demanded, having chaired the bill in committee and then today on the floor of the House, that I have not been permitted to vote since the Second Reading I can say with strict impartiality that I believe that the debate has been well-conducted, courteous, dignified and fair.
The close result in the Commons reflects the division of opinion and the bill will now proceed to the House of Lords for further consideration and possible amendment.
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17th June 2025
On Monday I welcomed the news that there will be a National Inquiry on Grooming Gangs and questioned the Home Secretary on who will lead the inquiry and what their Terms of Reference will be.
We must get this right so the victims can trust and find confidence in this inquiry.
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12th June 2025
On Monday I welcomed the news that there will be a National Inquiry on Grooming Gangs and questioned the Home Secretary on who will lead the inquiry and what their Terms of Reference will be.
We must get this right so the victims can trust and find confidence in this inquiry.
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12th June 2025
On Tuesday I followed up on the question that I asked last week to the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on Gaza and what his government are doing.
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11th June 2025
Yesterday I questioned the Secretary of State following my question to the Minister on Monday.
I reiterated my concern about the governments claim that under their plans only 1% of farmland will be damaged by solar panels, when in East Kent solar panels are smothering our best farmland.
We must do more to move towards having solar panels put on public buildings, rooftops and car parks to protect our farmland.
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9th June 2025
The first of many mistakes made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, was the termination of the payment of Winter Fuel Allowance to millions of pensioners.
This crass decision has caused significant hardship for some of the least fortunate people in the country during the past winter and the Government’s u-turn, brought about by pressure from the Official Opposition with support from all sides of the House, has to be welcomed.
The proposed new means test is clunky and bureaucratic but it will at least mean that many more people will receive the benefit in time for next winter.
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4th June 2025
Today in the House I questioned the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office on Gaza and what his government are doing.
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1st June 2025
I had the privilege of joining colleagues in the APPG for Cyprus on another informative visit to the island, where we witnessed again the enduring impact of its divided history and the ongoing pursuit of peace.
Our journey took us to the old Nicosia Airport, a site frozen in time since the 1974 Turkish invasion. Standing amidst the skeletal remains of a Cyprus Airlines passenger aircraft was a stark reminder of the conflict.
We celebrated the British winners of the multinational UN Peacekeeping Skills Contest. It was a powerful moment, symbolising the ongoing commitment to peace in a land still scarred by division and the illegal Turkish occupation of the Northern part of the island.
During our visit, we engaged in a number of discussions, including very positive meetings with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, H.E. Nikos Christodoulides, his Foreign Minister and the UK High Commissioner, H.E. Michael Tatham. The central focus of these conversations was the pressing need for a fair, just and lawful resolution to the decades-long frozen conflict.
A further compelling reunion was with Dr. Simos Ioannou, the exiled Mayor of Famagusta, a city of which I am proud to be an honorary citizen. Simos and his Council share a deep hope that Varosha and the whole occupied city of Famagusta, will one day be liberated, allowing all people to return freely to their homes and businesses with the UN peacekeeping force firmly holding the line in the interim.
As part of our delegation's mission, we also took the opportunity to advocate for urgent humanitarian aid. We discussed with both the President and the Foreign Minister the possibility of reinstating the successful, albeit short-lived, US/Cypriot aid lifeline between Larnaca and Gaza. While we acknowledge the significant obstacles in securing the distribution of aid once it reaches Gaza, we are agreed that the desperate urgency of the situation makes it clear that this vital route needs to be re-examined as a crucial means of delivering much-needed food and medicine.
21st May 2025
Yesterday in the Westminster Hall debate I spoke about the issue of Frozen Pensions.
In summary I said:
Successive governments have shielded behind a position that is completely untenable and I believe dishonest. These people are entitled to their money and have paid their way - the government must do something about it.
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20th May 2025
Today in the House I asked the Prime Minister, whilst his statement on the EU Trade Deal was full of self congratulation, when will the proper detail be signed off and brought forward so this House can properly debate it.
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16th May 2025
Yesterday afternoon I spoke in the debate on solar farms.
We cannot go on sacrificing agricultural land such as the land that surrounds Hoath or the agricultural land around Sandwich or West Thanet and still expect to have food sufficiency.
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15th May 2025
In the House today I asked the Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Transport, if he would reaffirm his support for Manston Airport.
I was pleased to hear his response and look forward to meeting with him soon to discuss the potential of Manston Airport.
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14th May 2025
Today in the House I asked the Minister about AI and its involvement with agriculture. Especially when it can effectively be used by companies like GrowUp in my constituency.
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9th May 2025
This afternoon at a splendid 80th VE Day anniversary event organised for parishioners by Herne and Broomfield Parish Council. With SAAFA and the Royal British Legion present and a remarkably lifelike rather important guest it could only be a great success. And the presence of the Herne Junior School choir singing wartime songs was the icing on the cake. (But try explaining pounds shillings and pence or a three penny pice to children who have only ever known decimal coinage!)
And then back in Birchington and another indoor ‘street party’ laid on by Birchington Parish Council for veterans and Senior Citizens. A great honour to be asked to propose the Loyal Toast at this event.
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6th May 2025
Response from Jonathan Wall, Director, BBC Sounds:
The BBC recently launched an improved version of the bbc.com website and a new BBC app for readers, listeners and viewers outside the UK.
The website and app offer an integrated service with a blend of written articles, thousands of podcasts and some video content which also hosts a live stream of BBC Radio 4 and BBC World Service. As a result of audio being available on the website and app, the BBC Sounds app will close outside the UK later this spring/early summer. However, people in the UK who have already downloaded the BBC Sounds app will still be able to listen when they go on holiday.
In parallel, we are working on plans to ensure the ongoing availability of other BBC stations for listeners outside the UK on alternative platforms. This includes the BBC’s music stations, BBC Radio 1, Radio 2, and Radio 3, 6Music, 1Xtra and Asian Network, as well as the BBC’s stations from the nations and regions. We will prioritise countries where demand for the BBC’s audio services is highest. We will not close BBC Sounds outside the UK until we have confirmed these plans.
We understand how highly our global audiences value these stations and our services and we review how we deliver these very carefully.
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3rd May 2025
As I was saddened to lose so many colleagues in the House a year ago so I am sorry to see many good, hardworking Conservative Kent County Councillors and candidates defeated.
Less than a year since the General Election it is not surprising that an electorate that rejected the performance of Johnson and Truss at the polls should not yet be ready to turn to us again and Kemi Badenoch has made it clear that rebuilding will be a process over four years requiring careful thought and hard work.
It is equally clear that those who placed their trust in Keir Starmer’s Labour Party have swiftly become disillusioned with a direction of travel that is harming our economy while hitting hardest some of the poorest people in the Country.
Under those circumstances it is not again surprising that the electorate should turn elsewhere to protest. It is clear from those many that I have spoken to that they have not voted for Reform policies because, apart from an indication that he would privatise the NHS, Farage has none. Not even on immigration, a key issue for the electorate, has Farage offered a single positive proposal.
I believe that where the disgruntled voter once turned to the Liberals or to the Social Democrats – if you remember them – they have now turned to Reform to express their discontent. But a party whose natural bedfellows appear to be Alternatif fur Deutschland in Germany, Viktor Orban`s party in Hungary, Giorgia Meloni’s government in Italy, and Marine Le Pen`s opposition in France and with unattractive ties to Trump`s administration in the United States cannot be a desirable alternative to run either County Councils or Central Government in a democratic United Kingdom.
The Conservative Party will continue the process, under Kemi Badenoch, of listening, rebuilding, presenting revised policies and , at the appropriate time, offering ourselves to form the next Government.
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27th April 2025
As we head into the final week of the election campaign for the Kent County Council elections and the Thanet District Council by-election our candidates have been out across Herne Bay and Sandwich (with West Thanet).
They have been delivering leaflets and talking to residents and are grateful for all those who have pledged their support. They will be out everyday for the final push before polls open on Thursday 1st May.
On May 1st please vote for:
Derek Crow-Brown and Phil Fellows - Birchington and Rural (KCC)
Ash Ashbee - Thanet Villages (TDC by-election)
Sue Chandler - Sandwich (KCC)
Louise Harvey-Quirke - Herne Village and Sturry (KCC)
Dan Watkins - Herne Bay East (KCC)
Neil Baker - Whitstable East & Herne Bay West (KCC)
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26th April 2025
It was a great privilege to be invited, as a Kent Member of Parliament, to attend the presentation of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service to Kent’s Police Cadets and their leaders and to be able to inspect some of the cadets from East Kent and to thank them for their service to the community.
With 250 Police Cadets, supported by their families, were present at the Police College to see the Chief Constable, Tim Smith, receive the award from the Lord Lieutenant, The Lady Colgrain, on behalf of his Majesty.
There was a splendid display of precision marching to the music of the band of the Princess of Wales’ Royal Regiment and a wonderful exhibition of the skills of some police dogs.
And I got to meet retired officer Mark Arnold’s cadet Police puppy Ralph!
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24th April 2025
Today in the House I asked for an update on a submission I made for a medal to be given to police officers who were injured on duty and invalided out of the service.
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24th April 2025
Joint statement from Sir Roger Gale MP, Ash Ashbee (candidate for Thanet Villages by-election), Derek Crow-Brown and Phil Fellows (candidates for Birchington and Rural, KCC election) on National Grid’s Sea Link Project:
“As anticipated National Grid has chosen to ignore the strength of public opinion and the Planning Inspectorate has accepted their Development Consent application for examination.
This will see the process begin with a Preliminary Meeting, followed by an examination phase that includes public hearings. Subsequently, the Planning Inspectorate will issue a recommendation to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, who will then make the final decision on the application.
However, now more than ever, the strength and determination that the Save Our Minster Marshes Group have shown throughout this process must now be reflected and enhanced by everyone that wants to protect the Marshes from destruction. You have the right to have a further say - please register on the link below when the details are published.
As your Member of Parliament and prospective Councillors we will help to continue the fight against this. Sir Roger has raised this matter in Parliament, written multiple letters and we all will do what we can in support of the campaign against the destruction of the Minster Marshes.
Now is the time to show our strength in numbers and continue the fight.”
Link to register to have your say - https://national-infrastructure-consenting.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/projects/EN020026
Guide on how to have your say - https://national-infrastructure-consenting.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/having-your-say-guide
Please copy and paste the above links into your browser. If you just click the link it, for some reason, doesn’t work.
19th April 2025
A busy week for our candidates across Herne Bay and Sandwich (with West Thanet) who have been out delivering leaflets and knocking on doors to speak to residents about the upcoming KCC elections and the Thanet District Council by-election.
On the whole, we have been incredibly fortunate with the weather and have enjoyed being able to speak to residents across the constituency. Thank you to all of those who have said they will be supporting us.
On May 1st please vote for:
Derek Crow-Brown and Phil Fellows - Birchington and Rural (KCC)
Ash Ashbee - Thanet Villages (TDC by-election)
Sue Chandler - Sandwich (KCC)
Louise Harvey-Quirke - Herne Village and Sturry (KCC)
Dan Watkins - Herne Bay East (KCC)
Neil Baker - Whitstable East & Herne Bay West (KCC)
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13th April 2025
Another week, and our candidates across Herne Bay and Sandwich (with West Thanet) have been out in the sunshine speaking with residents about the upcoming KCC elections and the Thanet District Council by-election.
Thank you to all those who have pledged their support. It’s been great to speak to so many residents across the constituency.
On May 1st please vote for:
Derek Crow-Brown and Phil Fellows - Birchington and Rural (KCC)
Ash Ashbee - Thanet Villages (TDC by-election)
Sue Chandler - Sandwich (KCC)
Louise Harvey-Quirke - Herne Village and Sturry (KCC)
Dan Watkins - Herne Bay East (KCC)
Neil Baker - Whitstable East & Herne Bay West (KCC)
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11th April 2025
The future of British ’virgin’ Steel, essential to, particularly, the defence industries, should never have been allowed to be held to ransom.
All of the international signals have been available to this Labour government for weeks and it should not have been left to a last-minute recall of parliament to pass legislation that has cross-party support to begin to address this crucial issue.
This could and should have been dealt with days if not weeks ago.
In today’s volatile world we cannot rely upon supplies on either the USA or China and this ought to be a wake up call to Starmer that sustainability - of food as well as steel - ought to be at the top of the political agenda.
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9th April 2025
A statement from Ash Ashbee, the Local Conservative candidate for the Thanet Villages by-election:
“It has come to my attention that a recent blog post authored by a fellow candidate in the upcoming Thanet Villages by-election along with numerous FB posts by an existing elected member contain a series of wholly untrue, misleading, and defamatory statements about my character, conduct, and professional integrity.
These allegations are entirely false, deeply misleading, and designed to damage my reputation during this election campaign.
I have always conducted myself with integrity, and I will continue to campaign on the issues that matter to our community.”
Sir Roger Gale said:
“I have with great pleasure endorsed the candidacy of Ash Ashbee who is standing for election in the Villages Ward by-election. Had I any doubts about her probity I would not have done so and I leave it to the electorate to decide whether to trust my judgement or that of her critics.”
“For the avoidance of doubt let me be clear: as the leader of TDC Ash Ashbee revealed herself as a woman of considerable political courage who, on a non-partisan level was prepared to take, in the interests of the people of Thanet, difficult decisions that other ‘leaders’ had ducked.”
“She also has staunchly supported me in many of the local issues that residents came to me about and has always stood alongside me to see Manston Airport re-opened. I shall welcome the continuation of that support, when Ash Ashbee is re-elected to represent the Thanet Villages Ward on Thursday, 1st May.”
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6th April 2025
It’s been a busy week for our candidates across Herne Bay and Sandwich (with West Thanet). All of them have been out campaigning and talking to residents about the upcoming KCC elections and the Thanet District Council by-election.
We’ve had many positive conversations on the doorstep and are grateful for those who have pledged their support for our brilliant candidates.
On May 1st please vote for:
Ash Ashbee - Thanet Villages (TDC by-election)
Derek Crow-Brown and Phil Fellows - Birchington and Rural (KCC)
Sue Chandler - Sandwich (KCC)
Louise Harvey-Quirke - Herne Village and Sturry (KCC)
Dan Watkins - Herne Bay East (KCC)
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3rd April 2025
Earlier in the week I asked the Minister of State (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office) if he could remind his opposite number in the United States - that Canada has chosen to be a member state of the Commonwealth and there is no prospect, whatsoever, of Canada being annexed by the United States.
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31st March 2025
The Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill . Commonly known as the Assisted Dying bill, completed its Committee Stage in the small hours of last Wednesday morning.
After nearly eight hours in the chair I was able to report the bill for further consideration (Report Stage) and Third Reading on the floor of the House.
As one of the Chairmen I am required to remain strictly impartial and may not comment further on the merits or otherwise of the legislation.
I do, though, feel able to say that both the promoter of the bill, Kim Leadbeater (Labour ) and its leading opponent, DannyKruger (Conservative) presented their respective cases with admirable clarity, determination and courtesy.
Following amendment in Committee it is unlikely that the bill, if passed by both Houses of Parliament, will be implemented within the lifetime of this parliament.
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26th March 2025
Today in House I once again raised the issue about the governments plans to raise National Insurance on those that work in hospices that provide vital care for those in need.
By taking this approach the government is giving with one hand and taking with the other, as a result we will see a reduction in staff.
It saddens me to say it but there was an obvious lack of Labour MPs who were sat on the benches opposite - which in this instance speaks volumes - quite simply they don’t care.
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25th March 2025
I intervened on the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government’s speech about the new Planning and Infrastructure Bill.
In which I stated that when it comes to major infrastructure projects like National Grid’s Sea Link project, we have to have the right to object. It seems however that this new Planning and Infrastructure Bill seeks to take that right away.
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19th March 2025
Earlier today in the House, I said to The Exchequer Secretary, that the government needs to be clear that the money being given to children’s hospices such as Demelza House and Shooting Star is for building.
It is not to cover the increase in National Insurance - which is hitting directly the people that do the work upon which very sick children rely on.
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19th March 2025
The Wildheart Trust and Cats Protection have my support in pressing for regulation to prevent the breeding of hybrid felines crossed between illegally imported African Serval (wild) cats and British domestic animals.
The resulting Savannah animals may be popularised by social media and purchased online by idiots as status symbols or fashion accessories but they have been proven to be a danger to wildlife and potentially to humans and they have no place in our homes or gardens.
This trade needs to be banned immediately and before it gets further out of control.
14th March 2025
Yesterday I spoke in the House on the debate on the "Future of Farming".
I intervened on my Rt Hon Friend Alistair Carmichael MP, to push the case that the rural economy is interlinked and that if we damage one part of that economy i.e farming, then we will damage it all.
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2nd March 2025
Whatever my criticism of Sir Kier Starmer’s domestic policy - and they are many - I believe that in the Leadership that he has shown and the progress that with European leaders he has made over the crisis in matters relating to Ukraine he deserves the united support of the House of Commons. I know that in this he has the backing of the Leader of the Opposition as he will have mine in seeking to achieve ‘a coalition of the willing’.
I trust that that will include the United States of America.
I have, however, very grave doubts that any sustainable peace agreement on grounds that do not include the surrender of Ukrainian territory that Ursula Von Der Leyen has rightly described as unacceptable is achievable. My own dealings with the Russians as Leader of the UK delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe tell me that under Putin no agreement is likely to be worth the paper that it is written on - and the White House would be naive to believe otherwise of any such agreement without the backing of a military guarantee.
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28th February 2025
President Zelensky has raw courage and determination. Mr Trump has revealed himself once again to be a bully a narcissist and an egotist, self-interest as a Nobel prizewinning ‘peacemaker’ Trump the ‘deal maker’ has shown no understanding of history or of Putin’s flagrant breach of any international agreement that he has entered into.
As the Leader of the United Kingdom delegation to and briefly President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe I have had dealings at first hand with Putin’s apologists. They never have been, never can be and never will be trusted to keep their word.
That is why I said in the House last week that Ukraine is not for sale and that this is not a transaction. Trump does not appear to understand and may be incapable of understanding that Not everyone has a price.
Time to withdraw His Majesty’s invitation to a State Visit to the United Kingdom?
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27th February 2025
I was proud to have been, with my late friend David Amess, one of the supporters of what became the Hunting Act that came into force on 18th February 2005.
Twenty years on it is clear that there are flaws in the legislation that allow those who wish to play the system to drive a horse and hounds through the spirit of the law.
That is why, at the risk of absorbing even more of the parliamentary time of which this issue has had a great deal, I believe that the time has come for the act to be revisited and strengthened.
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26th February 2025
Think of war graves and rows of white crosses in the cemeteries of Northern France and elsewhere in Europe spring to mind.
So an informative briefing from staff and volunteers of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission was a timely reminder that the fallen men and women of two World Wars lie not only in foreign fields but in graveyards in Herne Bay, Sandwich, Margate and throughout the country.
Those graves are lovingly tended by a small staff that includes Sarah Nathaniel, Jennifer Allen and Lizzie Shipton and dedicated volunteers like Trudi and Tom (all pictured).
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26th February 2025
Today marks the third anniversary of Russia's unprovoked and illegal invasion of Ukraine.
As one who has worked very closely in support of Ukraine - Suzy and I have five Ukrainian refugee 'grandchildren’ - I condemn utterly any proposals for capitulation or ‘settlement’ of Putin’s illegal war against Ukraine without the full involvement of and agreement with the government and people of Ukraine. ‘Peace at any price’ is not an option that can or should be on the table.
Ukraine is fighting not only for its own sovereignty but for the democracy of the free world - and we all, including the United States of America - need to remember that and to give the people of Ukraine our unqualified and full support.
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14th February 2025
It would appear that Trump’s administration has either forgotten or is too young to remember the Soviet invasion of Hungary (1956) or the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia (1968) and is prepared to treat Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine (2014) as a ‘transactional’ negotiation.
While we were awaiting the belated support of the United States, for which we paid for many years, during the Second World War, we stood alone against the Nazis: I trust that Trump - personally - will consider his position in respect of China and Taiwan.
Does Trump have to await a second Pearl Harbour before abandoning his parochial approach to 'foreign policy’? Or will he listen to the wider counsel of those if his relatively few supporters who have passports and abandon politics by social media and begin to understand that at least on this side of the Atlantic there are some who regard his approach as less than ‘brave’ and merely the naive populist utterances of a man who cannot bear to be not making headlines.
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14th February 2025
It has got to be at least twenty five years since I published ’Pets and Housing’ compiled by Professor Anne McBride of Southampton University. The report highlighted the urgent need for a better understanding. On the part of social landlords, of the housing needs of pet owners.
For many, and particularly the elderly, companion animals are literally a lifeline but in the intervening years and under successive governments the situation has become worse not better.
I therefore welcome the Dogs Trust initiative in placing this subject back in the agenda.
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11th February 2025
An interesting briefing from the Environment Agency demonstrating the new flood prediction tool that they are using.
At present the flood risk in most of Herne Bay and Sandwich appears to be low but looking longer term the picture is less attractive.
I have registered with the EA in order to receive out-of-hours notice of any likely ‘significant flood incidents’ in my constituency.
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10th February 2025
Preston Summerfest: A Community-Led Family Friendly Festival Supporting Local Charities
Preston Summerfest, a family-friendly music festival in the heart of Kent, returns over the August bank holiday weekend (22-24 August 2025) with a great lineup of live music, top DJs, and a powerful cause at its core. Taking place in the village of Preston, near Canterbury, this unique festival is run entirely by volunteers, with all profits supporting three important local causes: Demelza, Pilgrims Hospices, and Preston Primary School.
This year’s programme will star Toploader, best known for their hit songs Dancing in the Moonlight and Achilles Heel, The Petebox, the incredibly talented musician from The Voice, legendary DJ Graham Gold, and a host of other sensational bands and DJs including Hullaballoo and Shiva.
A particularly special performance will come from Certified Madness, a leading Madness tribute act whose lead singer, Barry Goodsell, has a deeply personal connection to Demelza House.
Barry’s daughter Caitlin was supported by the charity throughout her life. Born with congenital heart disease, Caitlin faced immense challenges, including multiple heart surgeries and two strokes, but never let her disabilities define her. Demelza provided vital respite care, counselling, and a place where Caitlin felt safe and happy. Performing at Preston Summerfest is Barry’s way of honouring her memory and giving back to the charity that meant so much to his family.
“This festival is about more than just great music—it’s about community, coming together, and making a difference,” said Event Manager Josie Leicester. “We wanted to make the event as affordable and accessible as possible while still raising vital funds for charity, which is why early bird weekend tickets (Friday evening and all day Saturday and Sunday) are just £25 plus booking fee for adults, £10 plus booking fee for teenagers, and free for children under 12.”
In keeping with the festival’s community-first ethos, the bar will be run by Ash Rugby Club, with profits split between our supported charities and their impressive grassroots club. This ensures that every aspect of the festival gives back, supporting local causes and bringing people together for a weekend of music, fun, and community spirit.
Preston Summerfest is a true community-led event, run by local residents and spearheaded by Preston Parish Council—a rare example of a local authority leading a major music festival. It has also received very strong support from local MP Sir Roger Gale.
With fantastic music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a commitment to giving back, Preston Summerfest is set to be a highlight of the summer season.
For full details, ticket information, and the complete lineup, visit www.prestonsummerfest.com.
Contact:
Event Manager: Tommy
Tel: 07736 300338
Email: prestonsummerfest@outlook.com
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8th February 2025
Another packed Saturday event - this week the Kent Conservatives County conference.
A rousing keynote speech from our last Home Secretary, James Cleverly, a chance to meet old friends Craig Mackinlay, Tracey Crouch and Greg Clark, all of whom retired at the last election, in conversation with Iain Dale, a personal message of support from Kemi Badenoch for our candidate in Herne and Broomfield, Grace Paget (election day Thursday 6th March) and the opportunity to welcome a new generation of young members.
Also a gathering of our County Council election candidates led by Roger Gough. An invigorating occasion - just like old times!
5th February 2025
I have been a supporter of hydrogen powered aviation since the prospect of carbon free fuel was conceived.
Hydrogen electric aircraft will be in our skies by the end of the decade. With the total re-development of Manston Airport at the planning stage and a wind farm just off the Thanet coast we have a unique opportunity to design in hydrogen aviation facilities from the very beginning.
The prospect of a net zero carbon airfield flying the cleanest and quietest aeroplanes in the world is truly exciting - and I intend to live to see it!
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4th February 2025
A predictably evasive answer to my question from the Secretary of State for Energy, Ed Miliband. How much longer are we going to subsidise the felling of forests in Canada to create ‘pellets’ to ship across the Atlantic to be burned to generate environmentally unacceptable power? Rumour in Westminster suggests that this might even get the further go-ahead this week. I hope that rumour is ill-founded.
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31st January 2025
Following Ministerial support for Manston in response to my question to the aviation minister, Mike Kane earlier in the week I was pleased to receive this additional encouragement from The Leader of the House of Commons during Business Questions today.
Also pleased to see that at least one senior member of the Government is taking the possibly illegal claims for taxpayers money to support the environmentally unsustainable burning of wood pellets imported from Canada by the Drax power station. A harsh parliamentary light needs to be shined into this dark corner.
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28th January 2025
In Urgent Questions today on the expansion of Heathrow. I asked the Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Transport) whether he recognises Manston Airport as an opportunity for economic growth.
With the Development Consent Order approved and welcome Ministerial support it should now be ’all systems go’.
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26th January 2025
On Friday 24th January I spoke as a sponsor for the, Climate and Nature Bill.
Below are the highlights of my speech
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23rd January 2025
All Members of Parliament represent autistic constituents but the statistics are stark. There are over 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK and it is estimated that at the end of last year more than 200,000 people were waiting for an assessment.
The impact upon families, as those of us who try to assist in these cases know only too well, can be devastating. The launch of the National Autistic Society’s report ‘A Constant Fight’ sets out the need and possible solutions very clearly.
There is a considerable cost to improvement. There is a still greater cost to inaction. The work of the last government in this area needs to be continued and enhanced.
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22nd January 2025
On Friday 17th January I spoke on the “New Homes (Solar Generation) Bill” - A Bill to require the installation of solar photovoltaic generation equipment on new homes; to set minimum standards for compliance with that requirement; and for connected purposes.
The below video is some of the highlights from my speech in which I outlined:
- How we must find better ways to put solar panels on our publicly owned buildings and car parks to stop solar panels being put all over our agricultural land.
- The Bill currently has loopholes in that will need to be addressed at Committee Stage.
- In my constituency there are new builds that have gone up and the developers have found “wriggle-room” to not install EV charging points.
- We should also be looking at grey water systems as this water is currently going to waste and due to the amount of land that has tarmac covering it that water can’t replenish the aquifers.
- We should be using solar tiles that won’t be an eyesore on listed buildings and allow for old buildings to be more energy efficient.
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21st January 2025
Yesterday I ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care:
1. Before the calling of the General Election the government made it clear they intended to spend £25million on the reconstruction of the QEQM Maternity Unit - following the Dr Bill Kirkup Report - will this government make the funding available?
2. How the government is going to ensure secondary healthcare meets the needs of the people that are going to live in the 1.5 million homes the Deputy Prime Minister wants to see built?
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17th January 2025
Today I asked the Home Secretary during her statement on the government-backed local grooming gangs inquiries, why:
1. She is so resistant to a broad based national inquiry rather than a very narrow five town inquiry?
2. She is so resistant to the statutory measures that will allow that inquiry to compel witnesses and evidence?
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8th January 2025
Today I asked the Prime Minister why, during his time as Public Prosecutor, he declined to instigate a prosecution for rape and sexual abuse against Mohamed Fayed.
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