
Chris presses Schools Minister for plans for Betchwood Vale Academy
I pressed the Minister for School Standards on what steps the Government is taking to deliver promised SEND schools.
Following on from my maiden speech, where I shared Christopher Laskaris’s tragic story—a young man with autism who was murdered. Together with his mother Fiona, Jake Richards MP (Labour) and Jeremy Hunt MP (Conservative). I’m working to improve the law to try and stop this happening again.
I spoke during the debate on the Mental Health Bill about our work with the Government on an amendment to the Bill to ensure that the views of family members are considered when determining an adult’s requirements for a mental capacity assessment, an amendment we believe would have saved Christopher's life.
"As your Member of Parliament, I am committed to addressing the ongoing challenges that our community faces, challenges that have only intensified in recent years. Many in Dorking are struggling to make ends meet, with rising costs making it difficult to feed their families and pay their bills. Access to healthcare is a significant concern, with too many unable to secure timely appointments with their GPs.
The impact of economic instability is felt by local businesses, many of which are fighting to survive amidst the cost of living crisis. I believe passionately that we can forge a better path forward. This area is my home—where I grew up, where I live, and where my children attend school. My wife and I are deeply invested in ensuring a bright future for our three daughters. We want them to have access to good jobs, affordable housing, and a reliable NHS that will care for them. We also want to protect our beautiful countryside for future generations.
My journey has taken me from the bustling finance sector to serving in the British Army, where I fought against terrorism in Iraq. After meeting atrocity survivors living in extreme poverty in Mozambique, I co-founded the charity Grow Movement, which provides business learning and support to entrepreneurs and businesses around the world. Now, I am dedicated to championing the change our community needs
I believe in a liberal economy that prioritises personal freedom and social justice. We deserve better than a government whose decisions have led to such significant financial and social damage. For too long, this area has been represented by Conservative MPs who seem to take your vote for granted. The Liberal Democrats are ready to lead that change, and I am here to ensure your voice is heard in Westminster."
I pressed the Minister for School Standards on what steps the Government is taking to deliver promised SEND schools.
I’ve been speaking to ITV about local companies such as Specsavers who are able to take over the NHS hearing services contract at Dorking Community Hospital but are being held up by bureaucracy.
Surrey County Council called Kathryn to dissuade her from pursuing an EHCP for her daughter, Evie who is 11 years old and has special education needs.
Specsavers are bringing NHS audiology services to Dorking and will soon be able to treat new patients!
Chris questions FCA on cancer patients being priced out of travel insurance by £3000.
Over 100 Surrey families have testified to lawbreaking, lying and gaslighting by Surrey County Council on Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. SEND provision in Surrey needs to change.